←Recommendations of Rockefeller versus Rivera [10 Minutes]

Art does battle with capitalism in this engaging short piece. Though set in the 30's, the struggle depicted here could not be more timely or crucial, as those with money seek to control the narrative and establish themselves as arbiters of thought and taste.

Rockefeller versus Rivera is a sharp, thought-provoking piece that brings a historic artistic clash to life with snappy, engaging dialogue. Caruso does an excellent job portraying these iconic figures and the tension between art, power, and vision in a way that’s both captivating and relevant.

The genius of this little play can be summed up by understanding that this line: "It must be nice to live in a world where money has no meaning." is not spoken TO millionaire Nelson Rockefeller, but BY HIM, and directed TO an artist raised in poverty. A great piece that reminds us why art in all forms is vital.

What does an artist owe his patron? When is his vision paramount? How does a patron handle a work of art that is antithetical to what he commissioned? These are among the fascinating questions explored with skill and urgency in this gripping docudrama.

An imagining of a discussion between Nelson Rockefeller and Diego Rivera, Caruso succeeds in creating fully realize versions of the historical figures that is not dependent on a preexisting knowledge. (Not an easy task!)
The motivations and clear, dialogue punched and snappy. Well done.
While I know there is a 30-min version, I would be interested in seeing a full length on the same topic.

I have always been intrigued by stories, loosely based or not, on ideological divides and class conflicts in New York City with titans of capitalism such as the Rockefeller, the Astors, Carnegie, the Vanderbilts, and others. Iyana Caruso has created a truly unique and compelling short play about opposing views of how art and commerce can merge, and added tension and drama, complete with splashing paint. Diego Rivera’s point about art becoming more powerful in its destruction is so thought-provoking, and I am curious to read what happens in the longer version. Beautifully executed!