10 Must-Watch Biopics About Artists

Description: Vincent van Gogh's life is portrayed with emotional depth, focusing on his relationship with his brother Theo and his struggles with mental illness, all while his art evolves into the masterpieces we know today.

Fact: Kirk Douglas, who played Van Gogh, learned to paint for the role, and some of his paintings were used in the film.

Description: This epic film dramatizes the life of Michelangelo, focusing on his creation of the Sistine Chapel ceiling, his conflicts with Pope Julius II, and his artistic genius.

Fact: Charlton Heston, who played Michelangelo, was also a painter in real life, and some of his own paintings were used in the film.

Description: Dive into the meteoric rise of Jean-Michel Basquiat, a graffiti artist who became an art world sensation in the 1980s. The film explores his friendship with Andy Warhol, his battles with addiction, and his raw, expressive art.

Fact: The film was directed by Julian Schnabel, who was himself a friend of Basquiat, providing an insider's perspective on the artist's life.

Description: This film delves into the complex personal life of Pablo Picasso, focusing on his relationship with Françoise Gilot, one of his many muses, and the impact of his genius on those around him.

Fact: Anthony Hopkins, who played Picasso, had to learn Spanish for the role, and the film was shot in locations where Picasso lived and worked.

Description: This film captures the vibrant life of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, showcasing her tumultuous relationship with Diego Rivera, her physical and emotional pain, and her unyielding passion for art. It's a visual feast that mirrors Kahlo's own colorful and intense paintings.

Fact: Salma Hayek, who played Frida, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress, and the film was directed by Julie Taymor, known for her innovative visual storytelling.

Description: Ed Harris stars as Jackson Pollock, capturing the artist's turbulent life, his revolutionary drip painting technique, and his complex relationship with Lee Krasner.

Fact: Ed Harris not only starred in but also directed the film, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

Description: Set in Paris, this film explores the life of Amedeo Modigliani, his rivalry with Picasso, his love affair with Jeanne Hébuterne, and his struggle for artistic recognition.

Fact: The film was shot in locations where Modigliani lived and worked, providing an authentic backdrop to his story.

Description: Tim Burton directs this biopic about Margaret Keane, whose paintings of big-eyed children were credited to her husband Walter until she fought for recognition.

Fact: Amy Adams, who played Margaret, learned to paint in the style of Keane for the film, and the real Margaret Keane made a cameo appearance.

Description: This film offers an intimate look at the last 25 years of J.M.W. Turner's life, exploring his eccentricities, his art, and his complex relationships, all set against the backdrop of England's changing landscape.

Fact: Timothy Spall won the Best Actor award at Cannes for his portrayal of Turner, and the film was shot in locations where Turner lived and worked.

Description: This French film tells the story of Séraphine Louis, a self-taught artist who was discovered by a German art collector, showcasing her unique vision and the simplicity of her life.

Fact: The film won seven César Awards, including Best Film and Best Actress for Yolande Moreau, who played Séraphine.