Led by Whispers: The Art of Patricia Ellisor Gaines
Led by Whispers documents Patricia Ellisor Gaines' labyrinthine journey to finish a labyrinthine book about Argentine writer and artist, Susana Bombal -- close friend and muse of the poet Jorges Luis Borges. While on this path, Gaines experiences a surprising revelation that alters the course of her artistic intention – and her art.
Director’s Statement & Production Notes:
Led by Whispers is very much a three-way collaboration with my two dear friends, the photographer and cinematographer Virginia Scruggs, and the artist and subject of our film, Patricia Ellisor Gaines. We three set out to make a film that would take our audience to the center of Patricia’s artistic process, and a film that would be as visually lush as Patricia’s luminous art. Thanks to Trish’s willingness and courage to reveal herself and her artistic process, and thanks to Virginia’s stunning camera work, I believe we accomplished our goal.
Our approach to making Led by Whispers was barebones but wholehearted. The three of us worked closely together over two summers in Nova Scotia with basic equipment and no additional crew. The simplicity of production created a safe and intimate atmosphere that allowed Patricia to be so revealing about herself and her art. Many who have screened the film have observed that her openness and, at times, vulnerability, are also the result of working with two close, trusted women friends.