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How
To Learn More About Art
Part Two: Videos
Want to
learn more about art but don't feel like getting off the couch
to go to a museum? Don't want to lift up one of those hefty muscle-building
art books, either? You're in luck. There are a wide variety of
videos available that are educational and entertaining. Keep in
mind that the majority of these videos are part of a series, so
they can be quite expensive to buy. But as with the art books
discussed in Part One of How to Learn More About Art, many
of the videos are also available at your local public library.
Civilisation
Although
this seven volume video collection is 30 years old, and is now
somewhat dated, it is still widely available at public libraries.
The rather stuffy and "upper crust" Sir Kenneth Clark guides the
viewer through the history of Western art. His delivery is dry
and with little humor...make sure you put on the coffee pot!
Art
of the Western World
Much more entertaining,
and yet still comprehensive is this four-videocassette collection.
The host Michael Wood is also English (anyone notice a pattern
here?), but unlike Sir Kenneth he frequently has renowned scholars
explain a particular work of art. This series is beautifully filmed
and covers many of the world's masterpieces of architecture, sculpture,
and painting.
Sister
Wendy's Story of Painting
Although there
is an accompanying book to this series, one look at Sister Wendy
in action will prove irresistible. This English (here we go again)
Catholic nun possesses an inquisitiveness and passion for art
that is presented in a refreshing style. If, after watching this
series, you've got to have more Sister Wendy, not to worry. There
are several more videos available at Amazon.com.
American
Visions
After looking at a lot of European-dominated art, it might be
a refreshing change of pace to focus on just American art. Host
Robert Hughes (no, he's not English, he's Australian!) guides
you through the evolution of American art from the Colonial era
to the present day with thoughtful insight and a fair dose of
an acerbic wit. The entire series is informative and thoroughly
enjoyable.
Power
of the Past with Bill Moyers: Florence
This video offers a truly fascinating look at Western art's most
familiar eras-the Renaissance. But rather than the traditional
approach to this subject, Moyers seeks to engage the viewer through
an intimate exploration of a shared heritage of artistic ideas.
This is a unique perspective to this era and worth checking out.
Against
the Odds: The Artists of the Harlem Renaissance
Come explore how Harlem in the 20's and 30's was such a focal
point of artistic creativity for African American artists. Their
work proudly demonstrates how these artists transcended the prejudice
that often surrounded them.
Meishu:
Travels in Chinese Art
This three part series takes a journey through China in order
explore Chinese culture and its art.
Great
Tales in Asian Art
Four well-known stories from India, Indonesia, Japan, and Korea
are told through visual art and performances.
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