James McNeill Whistler and the Case for Beauty

56m 46s

The original art star, Whistler was a caustic wit and man-about-town. For the first time, a film examines the biography of the man and the course of his career. Best known for his painting popularly called “Whistler’s Mother,” by his death, Whistler was one of the most recognized artists in Europe and is today placed in the first rank of modern painters.

Episodes

James McNeill Whistler and the Case for Beauty

56m 46s

The original art star, Whistler was a caustic wit and man-about-town. For the first time, a film examines the biography of the man and the course of his career. Best known for his painting popularly called “Whistler’s Mother,” by his death, Whistler was one of the most recognized artists in Europe and is today placed in the first rank of modern painters.

Extras + Features

London's Newest Resident

5m

Web bonus clip from James McNeill Whistler: The Case for Beauty
Portrait of the Artist's Mother

4m 14s

A web bonus clip from James McNeill Whistler: The Case for Beauty
Lady Meux | Behind the Scenes

1m 14s

Go behind the scenes as Whistler positions diamond-laden Lady Meux for her 1881 portrait.
The White Girl

5m 3s

A web bonus clip from James McNeill Whistler: The Case for Beauty
St. Petersburg in London | Behind the Scenes

51s

Travel to London as actors portray a scene from Whistler's St. Petersburg boyhood.
A Unique Personality

3m 9s

A web bonus clip from James McNeill Whistler: The Case for Beauty.
Butterfly | Behind the Scenes

53s

On set, the prop master supplies a fluttering butterfly to be chased by young Whistler.
Whistler's Comeback

5m 8s

A web bonus clip from James McNeill Whistler: The Case for Beauty
Prelude to a Hat | Behind the Scenes

1m 5s

The behind-the-scenes embellishment of a hat destined for a scene in Whistler’s studio.
Preview

30s

Best known for the groundbreaking portrait of his mother, James McNeill Whistler was the original art star. But beneath the high gloss, the struggle of this genius to find his own voice resulted in a breakaway style that moved painting towards abstraction and would revolutionize the art world in his time-and beyond.
Sunday Breakfasts | Behind the Scenes

57s

Champagne glasses are unpacked and arranged, ready for Whistler’s Sunday guests.
Porcelain | Behind the Scenes

1m 2s

Rustling straw, fragile porcelain, and Whistler's sleight of hand.

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