News Summary
The documentary ‘Bob Morgan’s Just Going To Tell Some Stories’ will premiere in Lexington on March 16. Created by Tom Marksbury and Grayson Johnson, it celebrates the life of Bob Morgan, an advocate for LGBTQ rights. The film highlights themes of AIDS grief and cultural subversion. All proceeds will support the Faulkner Morgan Archive, housing a vital collection of LGBTQ history in Kentucky.
Lexington Premieres Documentary on Artist and Activist Bob Morgan
Lexington is set to host the premiere of a new documentary titled “Bob Morgan’s Just Going To Tell Some Stories” on March 16 at 6 p.m. The film, created by UK film professor Tom Marksbury and New York filmmaker Grayson Johnson, is a celebration of the life and artistic contributions of 75-year-old Bob Morgan, who is widely recognized for his advocacy within the LGBTQ community.
The documentary showcases Morgan’s profound impact through his art, focusing on themes such as AIDS grief, cultural subversion, and the journey from being an outsider to a beloved community figure. The event will also function as a fundraiser for the Faulkner Morgan Archive, which houses the largest collection of LGBTQ history in Kentucky and ranks among the largest in the United States.
Bob Morgan’s Impact on the Community
Throughout his career, Morgan has served as a mentor to younger artists and supported LGBTQ youth in their efforts to come out. His involvement extends to fundraising efforts for organizations like Moveable Feast, demonstrating his commitment to the community. Morgan’s own experiences with the AIDS crisis, particularly his support for his late brother Hale during his illness, further inform his artistic narrative.
Documentary’s Unique Format
“Bob Morgan’s Just Going To Tell Some Stories” diverges from traditional documentary formats by operating without a script. The film captures spontaneous conversations as Morgan walks through significant locations that resonate with his history and creative journey. This unscripted approach aims to convey the essence of his experiences and emotions.
Artistic Themes and Style
In terms of artistic contribution, Morgan’s work features vivid colors and found objects, often described as “ecstatic assemblages.” These pieces illustrate complex themes such as addiction, LGBTQ alienation, and societal struggles, melding whimsical elements with poignant narratives derived from both his life and those around him. His early influences include his mother and acclaimed mentor Henry Faulkner, who played a crucial role in shaping his artistic direction.
Acknowledgment and Reception
The documentary has already gained recognition, earning a special jury prize at the San Francisco Documentary Festival, highlighting the film’s significance and the importance of Morgan’s story. The film premiere aims to engage younger audiences, emphasizing the power of storytelling in helping new generations understand their identity and history.
Background on the Faulkner Morgan Archive
The Faulkner Morgan Archive stands as a pivotal resource for LGBTQ history in Kentucky. Founded with the help of Morgan, the archive serves not only as a repository of historical documents but also as a center for education, allowing future generations to connect with the past. Morgan’s dedication to preserving this history underscores the importance of cultural memory, especially in a time when many issues relevant to the LGBTQ community remain prevalent.
In conclusion, the premiere of “Bob Morgan’s Just Going To Tell Some Stories” represents not just a celebration of an artist’s journey but also an intimate look into the heart of a community that has faced profound challenges. Morgan’s story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the significant role of art in advocating for social change, making the upcoming event a crucial marker in both his life and the wider narrative of LGBTQ history.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Kentucky Opinion
- Wikipedia: LGBTQ History
- Smiley Pete – Bob Morgan
- Encyclopedia Britannica: AIDS
- Transy Rambler – Faulkner Morgan Exhibit
- Google Search: Bob Morgan artist
- Obituary – Robert Morgan
- Google News: Bob Morgan documentary
- MutualArt – Exhibition
- Democrat and Chronicle – Bob Morgan Properties
