"[R]ich In insight, visuals and music...[I]t will leave audiences inspired and talking." Steven Garabedian, Assoc Prof, History, Marist College

In POST ATLANTIC, artist Dewey Crumpler struggles with this question and reveals the evolution of his thinking in beautiful, often abstract paintings that explore slavery, Black liberation, globalization, and pop culture. A crucial figure in the Black Arts Movement from his youth working with the Black Panther Party to his teaching young luminaries like Kehinde Wiley and Adrian Burrell at the San Francisco Art Institute, Dewey has challenged orthodoxies, exclusions, and foregone conclusions.

POST ATLANTIC: The Art of Dewey Crumpler tells Crumpler's story and follows him in his studio, at home, around the Bay, and at a recent high-profile opening of his new work, "Post Atlantic", at a New York gallery. The film is not hagiography, but an examination of what it is to be a working artist with a conscience in a society experiencing turmoil and backlash.

Other films by Deborah Kaufman and Alan Snitow are Secrets of Silicon Valley, Thirst, Between Two Worlds, Drones in My Backyard, Company Town, and Town Destroyer.



Grade Level: 10 - 12, College, Adults
US Release Date: 2025     Copyright Date: 2025
DVD ISBN: 1-961192-41-1

Reviews "In Post Atlantic, we see how Dewey Crumpler draws inspiration from sources as diverse as the history of the Dutch tulip trade, masterworks of Western and African art, 20th century avant-garde music, and contemporary shipping containers. Through his combination of historical consciousness and artistic talent, each of these sources becomes a muse for reflection on the history and culture of the African diaspora. Spanning a career arc from the artist's early public murals to contemporary gallery exhibitions, this documentary pairs Crumpler's vivid paintings and captivating narrations to powerful effect." Stacy Morgan, Professor of American Studies, University of Alabama, Author, Rethinking Social Realism African American Art and Literature, 1930-1953 "Nothing provokes discussion more than getting inside the studio, and the head, of an inquisitive art-maker. This thought-filled, up-close visit with Dewey Crumpler and his vibrant creations does just that. Post Atlantic is a brief but expansive film conversation that will provoke students of all ages to become sharper observers and more imaginative 'makers' in their own right." Peter H. Wood, Emeritus Professor of History, Duke University, Author, Near Andersonville: Winslow Homer's Civil War and Black Majority "Post Atlantic is at once self-portrait, artist showcase, and cultural meditation. Artist Dewey Crumpler shares his work and ongoing artistic convictions in a film that is rich in insight, visuals, and music. Ideal for classroom screenings and public events, it will leave audiences inspired and talking." Steven Garabedian, Associate Professor of History, Marist College, Author, A Sound History: Lawrence Gellert, Black Musical Protest, and White Denial "Looking at Dewey's art and listening to him speak truly define the struggles and spiritual journeys in the African Diaspora. Every moment more and more of us become untethered from the constraints of inequality. From abstract visuals to tulips, which represent life force and rebirth, Dewey connects us to the wholeness of the universe. He connects us with Ancestor Brilliance, and a path for those yet to come." Lincoln Beauchamp, Founder and Leading Composer, Art Ensemble in Chicago "This film eloquently explores the art and views of Dewey Crumpler as they have evolved from the Black Arts Movement to today. Inspired by the politics of Black liberation, he has been drawn to such objects as cargo vessels, tulips, shackles, and hoodies that resonate across time and place. Post Atlantic beautifully presents this unusual artist, weaving together his art, biography, and the historical context. Students and other viewers will find it a thought-provoking and engaging film." Kathy Peiss, Professor Emerita of American History, University of Pennsylvania, Author, Zoot Suit: The Enigmatic Career of an Extreme Style "Crumpler's works visually resonate with me: they are attractive, lyrical, and very forceful. For me, the physicality of the works is sensually alluring. I respond with exuberance to Dewey's sensitive, harmonious aesthetics. Yes! I admire his work. I am aware of Dewey's global political concerns, and his deep knowledge of historical world events. I think his works deserve prolonged viewing. There is much to see and feel. Bravo Dewey!" Oliver Lee Jackson, American painter, sculptor, draftsman, printmaker, and educator