There Is a Criminal Touch to Art

About This Movie

There's a fascinating layer to 'There Is a Criminal Touch to Art.' This 1976 documentary captures Ulay's audacious live action piece in Berlin, where he orchestrates a faux art theft of Spitzweg's 'The Poor Poet.' It's intriguing how the pace fluctuates between the unfolding heist and the ensuing media reactions, creating a palpable tension. The atmosphere is thick with conceptual commentary on art, theft, and the role of the artist. The performances, especially Ulay's commitment to his role, bring an engaging authenticity to the piece, as viewers are left to ponder the blurred lines of art and criminality. It’s a niche exploration that really gets into the psyche of performance art during that era.

This film is a rare gem for collectors, especially considering the limited availability of Ulay's works in physical formats. Though it's not widely circulated, the documentary has garnered a niche following, appreciated for its unique blend of performance art and social commentary. Many collectors seek out this title for its historical significance in the realms of conceptual art and the evolution of documentary filmmaking, making it a sought-after piece among those who delve into avant-garde cinema.