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The latest work in documentary magician Les Blank's ongoing celebration of humanity at its most sociable and creative is this loving portrait of an entertainer and artist provocateur who defies categorisation (a rather Blankian trait!). |
For close to twenty years Gerry Gaxiola, aka The Maestro, has totally dedicated himself to art producing an astonishing array of works he refuses to sell: among them a series of seventy-two paintings inspired by Vincent Van Gogh, over 100 ceramic Cadillacs full of cowboys on their way to a round-up in Reno, chaps hand-stitched with the faces of Wild West movie stars, a set of dazzling colour block prints and a collection of hundreds of envelopes decorated with cryptic messages to postmen and correspondents. Each year this glorious American original hosts Maestro Day—a joyous celebration of his previous years work—free to the public at the local high school. After the audience view his paintings in the foyer they adjourn to the auditorium where the Maestro takes the stage wearing a self-designed hand-sewn rhinestone cowboy outfit, shows his latest video, sings songs and does rope tricks all relating to that year's artistic theme!
Enter the world of Gaxiola's artistic philosophy via Les Blanks own individualistic cinematic portal and experience four amazing Maestro Days. Be inspired... be very inspired!