Watch Art of France

Art of France is a compelling series that takes the viewers on a journey through the history of French art, from the Middle Ages to the modern era. The show is hosted by Andrew Graham-Dixon, a renowned art historian and critic who provides insightful commentary and analysis throughout the series.

Throughout the episodes, viewers are treated to a plethora of stunning artworks from some of the most accomplished French artists. Andrew Graham-Dixon provides a detailed explanation of each piece, exploring the techniques used by the artist and the historical context that influenced their creation. We are taken on a tour of France's most iconic museums, including the Musée d'Orsay, the Louvre, and the Centre Pompidou, where we encounter masterpieces such as Monet's water lilies, Renoir's dance at Moulin de la Galette, and Delacroix's Liberty Leading the People.

What makes Art of France not just a showcase of great art but a great series is its ability to weave the artworks into the broader tapestry of French history, culture, and society. We learn about the tumultuous times when these masterpieces were produced, from the Hundred Years' War to the French Revolution, and how the artists responded to these events, whether in revolutionary fervor or in more introspective expressions of beauty.

One of the highlights of the series is its focus on the Impressionist movement, which revolutionized the art world in the 19th century. Andrew Graham-Dixon explores the works of Manet, Degas, Pissarro, and other Impressionist masters and shows how they broke away from the academic style of painting and embraced new techniques such as capturing the fleeting effects of light and movement. We learn about the challenges they faced in gaining recognition for their art and the impact that their works had on future generations of artists.

The series also highlights some of the lesser-known artists who made significant contributions to the French art scene. We discover the works of the Romantic painter Théodore Géricault, whose vivid portrayals of physical suffering and death were a sharp contrast to the more conventional, idealized style of his time. We also meet Édouard Vuillard, a Post-Impressionist painter whose intimate depictions of his family and friends captured the essence of life in turn-of-the-century Paris.

Art of France's approach to the subject matter is engaging and accessible, making it suitable for both the seasoned art connoisseur and the casual viewer. Andrew Graham-Dixon brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his presentations, providing ample historical and cultural context that helps deepen the appreciation of the artworks. Additionally, the series features high-quality cinematography that highlights the beauty of the artworks and the museums where they are housed.

In conclusion, Art of France provides a rich and rewarding journey through the history of French art. With its stunning visuals, thought-provoking commentary, and fascinating insights into the artists who created some of the most extraordinary works of art, this series will appeal to anyone interested in art and history. Whether we are seeing the powerful symbols of Delacroix's Liberty Leading the People or Monet's breathtaking "Water Lilies," viewers are sure to come away from this series with a renewed appreciation of the French art scene and the talent of its artists.

Art of France is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between January 29, 2017 and on BBC Select