Watch The Art Mysteries

The Art Mysteries is a gripping documentary series from BBC Select that stars renowned art critic Waldemar Januszczak in 2020. With a deep understanding and love of art, Januszczak takes the audience on a fascinating journey as he unravels some of the most enduring mysteries surrounding iconic masterpieces.

The series is a treat for art lovers and casual viewers alike, as Januszczak delves into the origins, the secrets, the controversies, and the influences behind some of the greatest works of art in history. The show covers a range of art genres, including painting, sculpture, architecture, and even photography, as Januszczak seamlessly weaves together narratives that are engaging, informative, and often surprising.

In each episode, Januszczak takes viewers on an immersive journey. He travels to various locations, ranging from remote art galleries, grand museums, and hidden vaults to ruins of ancient civilisations and forgotten artist studios. He expertly explains the backstory and origins of the artworks he is exploring, giving viewers a rich context in which to appreciate them.

One of the highlights of the series is Januszczak's ability to uncover hidden meanings and connections within the art pieces. He is an excellent storyteller, and his insights into the symbolism and hidden messages of the works bring a fresh and exciting perspective to even the most well-known and studied pieces.

In one episode, he explores the intriguing journey of Jacques-Louis David's painting, "The Death of Marat." Januszczak takes viewers through the radical upheaval of the French Revolution, which inspired the painting, and explains how the image of the deceased revolutionary journalist emerged as the most iconic symbol of the revolution. He then painstakingly explains each detail in the painting, including Marat's posture, facial features, and the symbolism of objects depicted in the image, bringing to life the highly charged political context in which the artwork emerged.

Another episode explores the mysteries surrounding Vermeer's painting, "The Girl with a Pearl Earring." Januszczak takes viewers back to the 17th century when the painting was completed and investigates the enigmatic glint in the girl's eye that continues to fascinate viewers to this day. In the process, he reveals new insights into the life of Vermeer, his artistic process, and the fascinating cultural context in which the painting was created.

In addition to his engaging storytelling, Januszczak's calm and measured delivery is a delight to watch. He is clearly a master of his craft, and his knowledge of art history and appreciation for the nuances of each artwork is evident in every episode. Despite his deep expertise, he never talks down to viewers or over-complicates things; instead, he brings art to life in a way that is both accessible and insightful.

Overall, The Art Mysteries is an impressive series that beautifully combines the love for art with the joy of storytelling. Through the eyes of Waldemar Januszczak, viewers are transported to distant times and places and gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of the artworks and the artists who created them. The series is a must-watch for anyone who loves art or simply wants to explore the mysteries and secrets that lie behind some of the most iconic works of art in history.