Producer Chris Walters and artist Mike Norice made waves on the international stage in May as they brought their inspiring documentary Artfully United to the prestigious Cannes Marche du Film where it premiered on May 17th, 2025. This marks a series of exciting firsts for both Walters and Norice—not only is it their debut at Cannes, but also their first time in France.
Artfully United is a deeply personal and moving documentary directed by Dave Benner, that chronicles the “Artfully United Tour,” a project that blends Norice’s visual art and message of faith. The film dives into Mike Norice’s life story, exploring his upbringing, family relationships, spiritual journey, and artistic evolution. It offers audiences a raw and uplifting look at how creativity and faith can become powerful forces for connection and healing.
Street Artist and Community Activist Mike Norice
For Walters, a passionate producer dedicated to bringing meaningful stories to light, Artfully United was a natural fit. “From the beginning, we knew this was more than just a film about an artist on tour,” Walters says. “It’s about community, resilience, and the unifying power of art and belief.”
The Artfully United started in 2016 and has a lineup of 13 murals all-over south-central Los Angeles. Norice has plans to continue and create 20 total murals projecting positive messages of Love, Unity, Forgiveness, among others.
The documentary has resonated with audiences for its authenticity and emotional depth, and its presence at Cannes opens the door for even greater international exposure. Norice would like to expand the tour outside of Los Angeles and bring his positive messages to places worldwide including Africa, Asia and right here in Europe.
As Artfully United made its anticipated market debut, it carried with it the universal themes of hope, faith, and the transformative power of art—messages that seem perfectly at home on one of the world’s most celebrated artistic stages.