ART IS AN EXPERIENCE.

~ Josef Albers

What happens when you pair an experimental education with art at its core? Not an arts school, but a school that values CREATIVITY & CURIOUSITY? Not to train artists, but to birth FULLY AWAKE students into citizens able to think critically, live communally, sustainably and joyfully?

This is a theme woven throughout our documentary film, FULLY AWAKE. We saught to delves into the world of this unique school in our hometown that defied traditional education norms and (unbeknownst to them at the time) left a profound impact on the American art scene. Because...how do you know the legacy and impact of what you are doing, day in day out? We don't. We only see it built. over time. Step by step. BLACK MOUNTAIN COLLEGE is a historic place that deserves a prominent space in American history.

Buckminster Fuller

Set against the backdrop of a post-war era, BLACK MOUNTAIN COLLEGE (1933-1957) was an experimental school known for its inclusive and artist-led approach. They were curious about PROCESS. The school valued LIBERTY. The founding professors wanted to practice the teachings of JOHN DEWEY and SOCRATES. Classes were informal and involved lectures followed by deep long discussions. It bloomed BIG ~ and then, it ended. And as one interviewee says in FULLY AWAKE ~ it died young, like a good hero. Not all schools are meant to be institutions.

BLACK MOUNTAIN COLLEGE was of an era ~ formed and successful because of the influx of deeply talented European artists and teachers, many like JOSEF & ANNI ALBERS, from the Bauhaus in Germany. They were seeking asylum in the Great Depression, and found it in this experimental pop-up school in the mountains of WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA. BMC's unconventional (to America) teaching methods led for a practice of LIBERTY AND JUSTICE. They were commited to racial integration in 1944, long before other schools integrated.

Through a curated mix of archival footage and insightful interviews with delightful ELDERS & WISDOM KEEPERS, the film offers a glimpse into the vibrant community that thrived within the school's walls. Our hope is that by witnessing the ethos of collaboration, exploration, and artistic expression that defined this educational hub, we will also embrace our inner BMC. We will become FULLY AWAKE, like the quote that the film is based upon.

We made our first film in 2007. This new version is more in line with our inner artists. We hope you have an opportunity to experience for yourself ~ we are working on sharing the film now.

May the film be a celebration of the power of community to awaken minds, spark creativity, and help shape fully conscious ~ FULLY AWAKE ~ human beings. We offer this revised film as a testament to the enduring legacy of a school that dared to dream differently and, in doing so, changed the course of American education and art forever. Thank you ~ we are changed.