Watch Hand of the Master: The Art and Life of Dom Gregory De Wit

Hand of the Master: The Art and Life of Dom Gregory De Wit is a captivating documentary about the life of one of America's most prominent artists, Gregory De Wit. Directed by David Naglieri, this documentary provides an intimate and insightful portrayal of the life and work of a man who dedicated his life to the pursuit of beautiful art.

Through interviews with people who knew him, archival footage, and personal materials, the film explores the life of Dom Gregory, a Benedictine monk, and artist who lived in the 20th century. From his childhood and early life in Belgium to his later years in a monastery in Missouri, the movie provides a comprehensive overview of the main events, highlights, and struggles that marked Gregory's life.

Dom Gregory was a remarkable artist who used his talent to create beautiful works of art that inspired and moved people. He was particularly famous for his stained-glass windows, which he crafted using techniques that he had developed over the years. The documentary shows how De Wit's background in architecture, his time studying in the Netherlands, and his experience working in London's stained-glass industry, all played an important role in shaping his artistic style.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the movie is how it captures the intricate and sometimes frustrating process of creating works of art. Through footage of Dom Gregory working on his pieces, we see him carefully selecting the colors, meticulously cutting each piece of glass, and arranging them to create an image. We also get a sneak peek into his other artworks, which include oil paintings, sculptures, and liturgical vestments which he designed and painted.

The film also explores another side of Dom Gregory's life- his role as a Benedictine monk. He lived in the Saint Louis Abbey, where he worked as an artist, teacher, and spiritual guide to many. The documentary shows how his artistic and spiritual life intertwined with each other. One of the most touching moments in the movie is when Kitty Cleveland, a singer and friend of Dom Gregory, shares one of his prayers that he wrote for artists. This prayer perfectly sums up how art and spirituality intersect in his life.

The documentary also offers insight into the relationship between Dom Gregory and those who knew him. Cleveland provides a very personal perspective into how De Wit's art and faith made an impact on her own spiritual life, as well as those who personally knew him. Through the film, we get a sense of the kind of person De Wit was- humble, devoted, and always striving for excellence.

The documentary is a visual tribute to De Wit's artistry. Naglieri utilizes a combination of interviews and images that fill the screen with vibrant colors, captivating imagery, and soothing music. The production design is excellent, with the artwork in the film beautifully shot and often given centre stage. The lighting of both the stained glass windows and paintings is stunning, giving the impression of pieces lit by natural light.

In conclusion, Hand of the Master: The Art and Life of Dom Gregory De Wit is a touching and enchanting film about one of America's most accomplished artists. The documentary reveals a man who dedicated his life to his craft, honed his talents, developed new techniques, and inspired many through his works. Hand of the Master is a must-watch movie for anyone who loves art, beauty, and humanity. It is a very moving portrayal of both an artist and a monk.

Hand of the Master: The Art and Life of Dom Gregory De Wit is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 55 minutes.