When we’re looking for creative ideas and inspiration, we usually browse our favourite websites, blogs, and social media channels. But did you know that Netflix is packed with inspiring documentaries on all kinds of creative topics? The only challenge is finding them.
Creative Bloq, InVision, and we at Digital Synopsis have shortlisted some of the best Netflix documentaries for artists, designers, and creatives. These shows can provide ideas, inspiration, and can help get those creative juices flowing if you’re stuck in a creative rut. Check them out below and make sure you watch them while they’re still available on Netflix.
1. Abstract: The Art of Design
Step inside the minds of the most innovative designers in a variety of disciplines and learn how design impacts every aspect of life.
2. The Toys That Made Us
The minds behind history’s most iconic toy franchises discuss the rise — and sometimes fall — of their billion-dollar creations.
3. High Score
This docuseries traces the history of classic video games, featuring insights from the innovators who brought these worlds and characters to life.
4. The Andy Warhol Diaries
After he is shot in 1968, the late artist begins documenting his life and feelings to shed light on the secrets behind his persona.
5. Print the Legend
This award-winning, original documentary chronicles the race for market leadership in 3D printing, the next wave of technological evolution.
6. Struggle: The Life and Lost Art of Szukalski
Artists in LA discover the work of forgotten Polish sculptor Stanislav Szukalski, a mad genius whose true story unfolds chapter by astounding chapter.
7. They’ll Love Me When I’m Dead
Actors, crew members and others who were there discuss the tumultuous creation of Orson Welles’s final, unfinished film, “The Other Side of the Wind.”
8. The B-Side: Elsa Dorfman’s Portrait Photography
Filmmaker Errol Morris probes the life, work and studio of his pal Elsa Dorfman, a Polaroid photographer who’s shot luminaries and regular folk alike.
9. The Creative Indians
From chefs and comedians to filmmakers and fashion designers, India’s most notable imaginative minds share their artistic journeys.
10. Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed
Bob Ross brought joy to millions as the world’s most famous art instructor. But a battle for his business empire cast a shadow over his happy trees.
Honorable Mentions
These documentaries are no longer available on Netflix, but they’re definitely worth a watch. Click on the titles to watch them on other streaming services.
01. Helvetica
02. Graphic Means: A History of Graphic Design Production
03. The Pixar Story
04. The Creative Brain
05. Floyd Norman: An Animated Life
06. I am Sun Mu
07. The 100 Years Show
08. Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things
09. 44 Pages
10. Blurred Lines: Inside the Art World
11. She Makes Comics
12. Jeremy Scott: The People’s Designer
13. Julian Schnabel: A Private Portrait
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