What sets documentaries apart from dramas and biopics? Stripped of actors and artifice, documentaries are free to focus on what really matters: the art and the artist. These ten documentaries work overtime to capture the nature of the artists the follow, whether in personal life or in the process of the art they create.

1. The Mystery of Picasso (1956) Renowned French filmmaker Henri-Georges Clouzot follows his dear friend –…

Inspiration can come from anywhere–school, pop culture, a walk outside. One of the best ways to be inspired, however, is by another artist. The next time you’re feeling lost on creativity (or just need some drama to put your artistic troubles in perspective), take a night off and consider checking out one of these:

1. Lust For Life (1956) Kirk Douglas and Anthony Quinn lead as Vincent Van Gogh and…