Stories of Art
Arts
About
Stories of Art brings together art historian Dr. James Fox and art critic Alastair Sooke to uncover the most inspiring and compelling stories from the history of art.From the lives of the world’s greatest artists to the turning points that changed art, to the hidden histories of great masterpieces, James and Alastair are your guides to the extraordinary characters and fascinating stories that have shaped art history. Full of insight, expert opinion and humour, Stories of Art is the ultimate deep dive into the history of art.
Episodes
- Francis Bacon: The Emerging Artist (Part 1)
This episode examines the early life and work of Francis Bacon, focusing on how World War II and his childhood influenced his art. It discusses artworks such as 'Three Studies for Figures at the Base of a Crucifixion' and 'Crucifixion'.
- The Raft of the Medusa by Théodore Géricault
Alastair Sooke and Dr. James Fox discuss Théodore Géricault's painting, The Raft of the Medusa, detailing its creation inspired by a shipwreck and the artist's pursuit of realism. Artworks discussed include The Raft of the Medusa and other…
- Katsushika Hokusai: The Endless Creative (Part 2)
This episode of Stories of Art delves into the enduring popularity of Hokusai's "Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji" and its impact on Western art. Hosts Alastair Sooke and James Fox discuss the final decades of Hokusai's life and his lasting…
- Katsushika Hokusai: The Man Behind the Wave (Part 1)
This episode delves into the life and art of Katsushika Hokusai, creator of The Great Wave off Kanagawa. Hosts Alastair and James examine how the Tokugawa shogunate's era in Edo-era Japan influenced Hokusai's work, featuring pieces like 'T…
- Artemisia Gentileschi: Painter to the Medici and Charles I (Part 2)
This episode of Stories of Art, hosted by Alastair and James, continues the exploration of Artemisia Gentileschi's life. It covers her election to the Florence Academy of Arts, her time as court painter to Charles I in London, and her fina…
- Artemisia Gentileschi: Talent and Torment (Part 1)
This episode delves into the extraordinary life and art of Artemisia Gentileschi, an Italian Baroque painter. It covers her early life, artistic development, and the significant impact of a traumatic rape and subsequent trial on her life a…
- Jean-Michel Basquiat: 80s Art Superstar
This episode examines the 1980s art world phenomenon Jean-Michel Basquiat, questioning his artistic merit versus market influence and discussing a $110 million artwork sale. Hosts Alastair and James trace his rapid rise and fall, highlight…
- Hans Holbein the Younger: Painter to Henry VIII (Part 2)
This episode of Stories of Art, hosted by Alastair and James, delves into the life and career of Hans Holbein the Younger, focusing on his survival at the court of Henry VIII and his significant artistic influence. It examines artworks lik…
- Hans Holbein the Younger: From Basel to the Tudor Court (Part 1)
This episode of Stories of Art examines the career of Hans Holbein the Younger. It details his rise from a German artist to court painter for Henry VIII, exploring his significant works and impact on British art history.
- Monet and the Birth of Impressionism (Part 2)
This episode discusses the 1874 First Impressionist Exhibition, examining its success and the controversial naming of the movement. It analyzes artworks by Monet, Degas, and Renoir, questioning the exhibition's historical impact versus its…
- Monet and the Birth of Impressionism (Part 1)
This episode explores the 1874 First Impressionist Exhibition, organized by Monet, Degas, and Renoir independently of the state-run Salon. It covers their challenges in finding a venue and funding, and discusses artworks from the period, m…
- Introducing Stories of Art
This episode introduces Stories of Art, a podcast featuring art historian Dr. James Fox and art critic Alastair Sooke. They will guide listeners through compelling stories from art history, covering artists, masterpieces, and pivotal momen…