Watch The Art of Spain

The Art of Spain is a captivating BBC Select series that explores the art and culture of Spain through the ages. Through the eyes of art critic Andrew Graham-Dixon, viewers are given an opportunity to take a journey through Spain's stunning art heritage - from architectural masterpieces, fascinating sculptures, to intricate paintings and vibrant street art.

The show is structured chronologically, with each episode focusing on a different period in Spain's rich history of art. In the first episode, viewers are introduced to the ancient Iberians who inhabited modern-day Spain and the stunning cave art that they left behind. In the following episodes, we move through time, exploring the art of the Visigoths, Moors, and the Medieval period.

The series truly comes alive when Andrew Graham-Dixon moves on to discuss the art of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. These were times of great artistic innovation, with such masters as El Greco, Murillo, Velázquez and Goya taking center stage. The rich tradition of Spanish painting is well represented, with viewers being taken on a journey through some of the world's most breathtaking art galleries and museums.

One of the things that makes The Art of Spain stand out is the fact that it doesn't limit itself to the great masters of each era. Instead, the series also explores lesser-known, but equally fascinating aspects of Spanish art. For example, Andrew Graham-Dixon visits an exhibition of Spanish Baroque still-life painting, which helpfully highlights the diversity of styles and techniques employed within the same era.

Another strength of the series is the way in which it contextualizes art within the broader cultural and historical context of Spain. The program is helpful in illustrating how the country's art has been shaped by wider social, political, and spiritual forces over the centuries. Andrew Graham-Dixon is a well-informed guide, and his commentary helps the viewer to gain an understanding of the complex forces that have shaped Spain's art culture.

From the El Escorial monastery to the striking architecture of Gaudi's La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the series also explores the rich mosaic of Spanish architecture. Along the way, viewers are introduced to the history and cultural influences that helped shape some of the most stunning buildings in the world.

The Art of Spain also devotes time to the issue of patronage, a crucial factor in the creation of much of Spain's great art. Over the centuries, vast fortunes have been amassed by the country's aristocracy, leading to a culture of patronage that encouraged and supported the work of artists. The series offers an insight into the relationship between wealthy patrons and their artists, giving viewers a greater appreciation of the pressures and rewards that come with creating art for a living.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of The Art of Spain is the way that it brings to life the country's rich tradition of religious art. Throughout history, art has been an integral part of religious life in Spain, and the series offers a fascinating glimpse into this uniquely Spanish phenomenon. From the Gothic sculptures of the Middle Ages to the Baroque altarpieces of the Renaissance, the show explores the spiritual richness of Spanish religious art.

Overall, The Art of Spain is an engrossing, well-researched, and well-presented exploration of Spain's art culture. Andrew Graham-Dixon's enthusiasm for the subject is infectious, and his commentary offers valuable insights into the historical, cultural, and political forces that have shaped Spain's art over the centuries. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or simply curious about the country's cultural heritage, this series offers a fascinating insight into one of the world's great artistic traditions.

The Art of Spain is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between January 30, 2008 and on BBC Select