This short documentary tells the story of World War II-era artists, who were interned in labor camps because of their pacifist beliefs. Stationed at Camp Waldport Oregon, these men suffered public contempt and derision, a harsh existence and deadly work. In spite of these conditions, they evinced a resilience and communal spirit that enabled artistic creativity and social conscience to flourish. The impact of their work resonates decades later: They laid the foundation for one of the most important artistic movements of the last century and pioneered the reform of the mental health care system.
This documentary was originally broadcast on Oregon Public Broadcasting in August 2009 and was an official selection of the 2010 Cannes Film Festival.
