Alexis Rockman’s watercolor drawings were the first stage in the development of the fantastical, imaginary world ofLife of Pi, the 2012 Academy Award-winning feature film directed by Ang Lee. Lee sought out Rockman’s vision as an artist with a specific commitment to hand drawing to bring a human scale to the project. Though most artistic contributions to cinema are dependent on photorealism or cartoon-like illustration, Rockman’s images are fluid, intimate, and dynamic in a way that only drawing can capture. The exhibition provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the relationship between visual art—specifically drawing—and commercial filmmaking.

Sponsors / Partners

Alexis Rockman: Drawings from Life of Pi is made possible by an anonymous donor. Additional support is provided by Richard Edwards, Baldwin Gallery, Aspen and James Salomon.

Support for the New Orleans presentation of this exhibition is provided by International-Matex Tank Terminals.