Australia, United States / 2017 / 50min / English / Rhys Mitchell 

Max Gimblett: Original Mind documents the life and process of eccentric, creative genius Max Gimblett. One of New Zealand’s most successful and internationally prominent living painters, Gimblett has been working in America since 1962. Gimblett took refuge in the precepts of Buddhism, and is an avowed Rensai Zen Priest. He is known for creating quatrefoil shaped paintings and Sumi Ink ‘enso’ works. 

Gimblett has become famous for his ‘all mind-no mind’ approach to painting. “We’re going to turn off our mind, and proceed with gesture, work with our body faster than our mind can follow.” He has developed a reputation for shouting and stomping whilst painting in an attempt to be completely spontaneous and as an expression of the immediacy of Zen Buddhism. 

The filmmakers spent a week in Gimblett’s Soho loft where he and his devoted studio assistants generously revealed the techniques and philosophy behind his beautiful art. Gimblett’s work is in the collections of many of the world’s leading museums including The Museum of Modern Art, The Guggenheim Museum, The National Gallery of Art, and Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tamaki. 

International Premiere 

Screening with Loading Docs: The Colourist (4 min)

Go back to the Doc Edge Festival 2017 - Wellington main event page