Ep 1. Romance

Art in the Twenty-First Century is a documentary television series that explores contemporary art and artists. Season 4, Episode 1, titled "Romance," delves into the theme of love and relationships as it is reflected in the work of three different contemporary artists.

The first artist featured in the episode is Berlin-based painter Wilhelm Sasnal. His works often depict everyday scenes and objects in a simple, almost naïve style, but with a layer of emotional tension that is both haunting and poignant. Sasnal discusses his interest in human relationships and the dynamics of love, and how these themes inform his work. He also talks about the challenge of representing complex emotions through the medium of painting, and how he tries to convey a sense of ambiguity and openness in his art.

The second artist featured is Laurie Simmons, a New York-based photographer who is known for her whimsical and surreal images of dollhouse-like interiors. Her works are often filled with bright colors and playful patterns, but also carry a sense of melancholy and isolation. Simmons discusses her fascination with the idea of the "otherness" of dolls, and how she uses her photographs to explore themes of identity, gender, and relationships. She also talks about the challenges of working in a male-dominated field, and how her experiences as a woman have shaped her perspective and her art.

The final artist featured in the episode is David Altmejd, a Canadian sculptor who creates bizarre and fantastical installations that sprawl across entire rooms. Altmejd's works are often described as both horrifying and beautiful, with their intricate detail and bizarre juxtapositions of materials and forms. He discusses his interest in the human body and in the symbolism of transformation, as well as his fascination with creating immersive environments that blur the boundaries between art and life. He also talks about the challenges of working on such a large scale, and how he uses his artwork to explore the mysteries of the human psyche.

Throughout the episode, the three artists reflect on the role of love and relationships in their lives and in their art. They discuss how their work reflects their own experiences of intimacy and vulnerability, as well as broader cultural trends and social issues. The episode also features interviews with curators, critics, and art historians, who provide further insight into the themes and techniques of each artist.

Overall, "Romance" offers a rich and thought-provoking exploration of contemporary art and its relationship to love and relationships. By showcasing a diverse range of artists working in different media and styles, the episode highlights the complexity and nuance of this theme, and invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences of intimacy and connection.