A Light in the Dark: The Art & Life of Frank Mason

During multiple sittings in Frank's studio in New York in 2004 as the model of the printer for Frank's painting "Joseph Pennell's Printing Press" (which appears in the film), I had the experience of a lifetime to sit for Frank. During the course of several days that year I traveled from Washington to New York to be with Frank in his studio as he painted from life. I possess pages of copious notes taken during our meaningful and often deeply profound and intellectual exchanges on art theory, art history, and the debacles of art restoration, but what impacted me most was the larger than life Maestro Frank Mason who shared art stories with such wit, energy and raw humor that I often found myself doubled over in laughter and breaking my pose. My friendship with Frank defies definition because one had to experience Frank Mason to realize the magnitude of the impact of Frank's presence. In his presence, Frank Mason's essence overwhelmed you. In his death, Frank Mason's essence overwhelms you.

What Maestro Films has achieved for the audience is the masterful presentation and shared intimate experience of Frank Mason's overwhelming essence in his absence.

Simply defined for those who did not know Frank Mason (and for those who did) I believe the words of Rainer Maria Rilke will allow everyone to fully comprehend why this film must be seen by anyone remotely interested in art. Rilke says: "The artist is like a polished surface, disinterested, which mirrors the world back to itself, and by wanting nothing of it...makes it real."

Frank Mason made the world REAL. I am profoundly grateful to Maestro Films for communicating in film what Frank wanted to share with the world. Sonny, Scott, and Rick, your collaborative efforts as Director, Producer, and Director of Photography respectively, are Oscar worthy. To all of you, and to Frank's beautiful wife, Anne, thank you for your artistic brilliance and indefatigable dedication to this film.

Documentaries are usually thought provoking and informative, but this one is also uplifting. If you didn't have the pleasure of being touched by the genius of Frank Mason in mortal life, his spirit lives on in the frames of this beautiful and touching documentary that shares his joy of life and his masterful accomplishments in the art world. Beautiful photography and a balanced view of the elements of his personality keep the film moving. There's not a wasted frame. If you do have a interest in art, this film is a must, from casual observer to ardent student. When you leave, you'll feel like you knew this very special man, and I warn you that you'll see things with a painter's eye, whether you can capture that with a brush or not.

This film tells the story of a true Renaissance man of the 20th century, a visionary who forged his own path despite the dominance of the contemporary art world in New York City. While teaching at the Art Students League on 57th Street, he influenced generations of artists, historians, museum professionals, and critics. A Light in the Dark captures his journey-one of immense talent, courage, and determination. This documentary offers an inspiring portrait through rare footage, insightful interviews with art professionals and former students that will resonate with both artists and non-artists alike.

I saw this film at a private showing in San Francisco, a great city know for strong interest in the arts. Not familiar with the subject, a classically- trained New York artist, Frank Mason, I was a little concerned with how interesting or relevant the film would be to me. I need not have worried!

This educational film was incredibly moving. It showcases one artist's struggle to keep old school skills alive in an increasingly commodified art world. The vision that Frank Mason possessed and the strength it took for him to stand up against some of the biggest names in (Capital A) Art, combined with his charming Grandpa-like orneriness, make this a fascinating piece. I heartily recommend it to anyone interested in the New York art scene in the 50's, restoration complications, artistic techniques and inspirations, or just want to see some beautiful images of cities like Venice or New York.

This film is an outstanding documentary about Frank Mason and his painting style and defense against cleaning of old masterworks. I support his fight 100%. Let the paintings breathe on their own. Some are meant to age over time, and not be disgraced with cartoon-like embellishment under the guise "cleaning" them up. This film should be included in art history classes across the world! It's a pity Frank Mason is one of the only masterful artists left to defend the masters and their artwork. I think this film enlightens us to the fact of the (literal) atrocities that museums and galleries alike are doing to these wonderful works of art unbeknownst to the public, unbeknownst to the appreciative art lovers of our time, and the time to come. We cannot stop time! What will happen in 2 hundred years from now? Are we again going to be subjected to further "cleaning" of the masterworks until they are unrecognizable tragedies of themselves? This is an important film in my opinion.