Forced Perspective

Forced Perspective is an intimate character portrait of iconic Cleveland artist Derek Hess by filmmaker Nick Cavalier. From Derek’s early Euclid Tavern concert posters to his expressive fine art pieces, the film is a journey through Derek’s struggle with alcoholism and bipolar disorder and how these demons effect his artwork along the way. Presenting a window into Derek’s personal life, illuminating his process and philosophy, Forced Perspective showcases the evolution of a celebrated artist, his effect on music and culture, and highlights the link between creativity and mental illness.