Velázquez, Art and Power

Diego Rodríguez de Silva y Velázquez: Velázquez. From being the grandson of a hosier and the son of a modest ecclesiastical notary to becoming the painter Francisco Pacheco’s son-in-law, usher, bailiff, court painter for King Philip IV, his majesty’s valet, superintendent of works, royal lodging master... and universal painter. One recurring characteristic in Velázquez’s life was undoubtedly his quest for the favour of power. But who was Diego Velázquez really? Why this obsession with becoming a nobleman? Was his painting an end or a means? And above all: why did he go to such lengths to conceal his private life? (Seminci - Valladolid International Film Festival)