Rising: The Art and Life of John Waddell is the inspiring story of a widely collected American sculptor who resisted modern trends to stay true to the human form, the losses that decision cost him and the immeasurable treasures he gained. Working on the periphery of the contemporary art world for 50 years, he thrived without the help of critics and overcame enormous personal setbacks. Told by 15 models including the filmmaker, in rarely seen modeling sessions, the film follows the making of Rising, 28-figure, 50-foot high relief sculpture, inspired by 9/11.