Watch The Art of Russia

The Art of Russia is a fascinating documentary series presented by art historian Andrew Graham-Dixon, which explores the rich and varied artistic heritage of Russia. Spanning over a thousand years from its inception to the present day, it delves into the very heart of Russia's cultural identity, revealing not only the artistic achievements but also the political, social and historical events that shaped the trajectory of Russian art.

In each episode, Graham-Dixon takes the audience on a journey through the ages, introducing us to some of the greatest masterpieces of Russian art and architecture. He begins by tracing the earliest artistic traditions of Russia, including the ornate Byzantine frescoes and icons that still adorn the walls of the country's oldest churches and monasteries. From there, he explores the explosion of creativity that took place during the reign of Peter the Great in the 18th century, when Russia began to acquire a distinctly European art style, inspired by the Renaissance and Baroque movements.

Graham-Dixon's exploration then focuses on the revolutionary art of the early 20th century when artists sought to break free from the rigid constraints of the past and embrace new and radical ideas. The programme takes a closer look at the avant-garde movements that emerged during this time, including the 'Futurists', the 'Suprematists' and the 'Constructivists', and the political upheavals that both inspired them and ultimately brought them to an end.

The series provides a fascinating insight into the ways in which the arts were used as a powerful tool of propaganda by the Soviet regime, from the socialist realism of the 1930s to the dissident art of the 1960s and 1970s, which expressed a powerful critique of the regime's oppressive and repressive policies.

Throughout the series, Graham-Dixon brings to life the stories and personalities behind some of Russia's most iconic works of art, from the towering majesty of St. Basil's Cathedral on Red Square to the subtle elegance of Kazimir Malevich's 'Black Square', and from the grandeur of the Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg to the simplicity of a rural peasant's traditional embroidery. He uses his expertise to interpret and analyse each work, revealing the hidden meanings and messages that lie beneath the surface.

The Art of Russia is a beautifully produced and visually stunning series that provides a captivating insight into the deeply rich and varied cultural heritage of one of the world's most enigmatic and fascinating countries. With Andrew Graham-Dixon as our guide, we are taken on an unforgettable journey through the ideas, inspiration and creativity that have shaped the art of Russia, leaving us with a renewed appreciation of the power of the visual arts to convey the deepest emotions and aspirations of humanity.

The Art of Russia is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between December 8, 2009 and on BBC Select