Netflix has officially announced the upcoming release of a powerful new documentary focused on the life and legacy of Yoko Ono, the iconic Japanese artist, poet, and peace activist. Titled The Art of Yoko, the film promises an intimate look at her journey through avant-garde art, activism, and her enduring influence on global culture. Netflix confirmed that production is complete and the documentary will premiere worldwide on November 20, 2025.
Yoko Ono, widely known for her pioneering work in performance art, conceptual installations, filmmaking, and her advocacy for world peace, has long been a polarizing and misunderstood figure. From her early life in Tokyo to her artistic rise in New York in the 1960s and her famous relationship with John Lennon, Ono’s story is as complex as it is inspiring. Netflix’s new documentary seeks to unpack her artistic genius and personal convictions in a way that has never been done before.
According to sources close to the production, The Art of Yoko will feature never-before-seen archival footage, exclusive interviews, and rare recordings of Ono’s performances. Viewers can expect to hear from fellow artists, close collaborators, family members, and cultural critics who will offer fresh insights into her groundbreaking work and life philosophy.
A major highlight of the documentary is its access to Ono’s private journals, letters, and studio materials—many of which have never been made public. These intimate artifacts reveal the inner world of an artist constantly evolving and responding to the times. Netflix producers have worked closely with Ono’s team to ensure a respectful and deeply personal portrayal.
The documentary will also explore Ono’s fierce commitment to peace and activism. From her provocative “Bed-Ins for Peace” with John Lennon to her ongoing public art projects promoting unity and hope, Ono’s voice has been a consistent force for nonviolent resistance and change. Her ability to merge art and activism has influenced generations of creators and thinkers.
The soundtrack will include remastered audio from Ono’s experimental music catalog as well as tributes by contemporary artists who have drawn inspiration from her avant-garde style and boundary-pushing vision.
Netflix’s decision to spotlight Yoko Ono is a testament to her lasting impact not just on art, but on society at large. Her work challenges norms, provokes thought, and invites participation—qualities that continue to resonate in today’s world.
Critics and art historians have often debated Ono’s place in the art world. Is she merely a pop culture figure, or a radical visionary far ahead of her time? The Art of Yoko addresses this question by delving into her creative process, themes of feminism, identity, and peace, and her fearless defiance of convention.
The documentary also addresses the public scrutiny and criticism Ono faced, especially in the aftermath of Lennon’s death, and how she remained resilient in the face of it. By presenting her in her own words and through the voices of those who know her best, the film promises a fresh and multifaceted portrait of an artist who refuses to be confined.
With the release date drawing near, excitement is building across social media and among art communities. Netflix has a strong track record of producing compelling artist documentaries, and expectations are high for The Art of Yoko.
Whether you’ve followed her career for decades or are just discovering her legacy, this documentary is set to be a thought-provoking tribute to a truly singular figure in modern art and activism.