Art History

This film is one of a six-part series that traces the evolution of Western art through the centuries. In this episode, the focus is on the 18th century, which started with the development of decorative art known as Rococo, and ended with increased emphasis on pastoral themes and the plight and dignity of common people. The film presents some beautiful pieces of art from the world's leading museums. Represented are the works of Titian, Rubens, Watteau, Gainesborough, and others. Art historians provide insight into the lives and times of these and other artists. ~ Rose of Sharon Winter, All Movie Guide

This documentary takes a look at gargoyles, the stone or cement creatures that adorn the lofty tops of buildings. Thought by some to contain the trapped souls of the condemned and believed by others to ward off evil, these adornments are sources of curiosity even today. ~ Cammila Albertson, All Movie Guide

Using the artist-sculptor's poems, letters and diaries, as well as extensive footage of his works, this docudrama tells the story of the artist Michaelangelo's life, beginning with the completion of his last Pietà at age 89. Also included is footage of some newly discovered (as of 1987) artworks by the master, including a wooden crucifix, some drawings, and the original head of the Pietà Rondanini. ~ Clarke Fountain, All Movie Guide

The art of Hilaire-Germaine-Edgar Degas is familiar to many who know of his graceful ballet dancers. He was influenced by the painters of the Renaissance period, and admired the works of the painter Jean Auguste Ingres. In this program, art scholars analyse the work of this Impressionist, who captured the dancer in motion, and produced work, done mostly in pastels, depicting ballerinas on- and off-stage, at rest, and in groups. The Impressionists: Degas effectively combines images of his art with footage of the Royal Ballet of Birmingham, England. ~ Alice Day, All Movie Guide

With its detailed use of conspiracy theories and art history, The DaVinci Code became one of the biggest best sellers of its decade. Unlocking DaVinci's Code documents some of the topics brought up in the book. The film includes a look at how such historical figures as Leonardo DaVinci, Victor Hugo, and Isaac Newton may have been part of a secret society. ~ Perry Seibert, All Movie Guide

Part social engineering, part artistic happening, the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s and 1930s brought the accomplishments of African-Americans to the forefront of popular culture. Against All Odds: The Artists of the Harlem Renaissance remembers the glory days of the New York neighborhood. Spurred by efforts from the NAACP and the Urban League, black Americans were urged to step up creatively after the 1919 race riots. The result was a blossoming of talent through theatre, music, dance, and art. Harlem became a place of intrigue as people recognized the heightened activity. This one-hour presentation traces the history of this important American movement. ~ Sarah Ing, All Movie Guide

Documentary filmmaker Ric Burns explores the life and legacy of pop art's most beloved icon with this film that seeks to illuminate the public persona and creative complexity of painter, photographer, and filmmaker Andy Warhol. Host Laurie Anderson narrates as an erudite collection of curators, critics, and biographers dispel Warhol's own self-created image as a haute couture heavyweight to offer a more intellectually minded portrait of the man who forever changed the way the world views Campbell's Soup cans. From Warhol's boyhood experiences in a Czechoslovakian community in Pittsburgh to a disheartening stint at art school and initial work as a commercial illustrator in New York, Burns' film explores every aspect of Warhol's life to offer a detailed look at the artist whose short-circuited class-jumping gave him a most unique view on contemporary culture. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide

The life of artist Alberto Giacometti is explored in this biography featuring footage of some of the 20th Century minimalists' best-loved works. From his early childhood and the influence of his father to his experimentation with surrealism and career-defining existentialism, this biography explores every step of Giacometti's remarkable career. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide

Explore the life and career of legendary French artist Henri Matisse in this video biography featuring footage of some of the 20th Century fauvist's best-loved works. From his early days as a sickly law student whose discovery of art came during a year confined in bed to his later career as a successful sculptor, painter, and graphic designer and ultimate identity as a living legend, this biography explores every step of Matisse's remarkable life and career. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide

Kultur's Artists of the 20th Century series presents in-depth discussions of both the notable works of and the lives of some of the most acclaimed figures of the art world. The fantastical stylings of Spanish painter Joan Miró are at the center of this entry. A contemporary of Pablo Picasso, Miró was as imaginative as he was prolific, producing thousands of whimsical and colorful works throughout his life. Other episodes in the series include Artists of the 20th Century: Andy Warhol, Artists of the 20th Century: Henri Matisse, and Artists of the 20th Century: Marcel Duchamp. ~ Matthew Tobey, All Movie Guide

One of the most legendary artists of modern times, Pablo Picasso is the focus of this edition of Artists of the 20th Century. Each volume of the series comes from Kultur Video and features an in-depth profile of one of the most renowned figures in contemporary art. ~ Matthew Tobey, All Movie Guide