Art of Scandinavia Season 1 Episode 2 Once Upon a Time in Denmark

Once Upon a Time in Denmark is the second episode of the first season of the Art of Scandinavia series. In this episode, art expert Andrew Graham-Dixon takes viewers on a journey through the rich artistic heritage of Denmark.

The episode starts with a visit to the National Gallery of Denmark in Copenhagen, where Graham-Dixon examines the works of legendary Danish painter Christen Købke. Købke's landscapes are known for their understated beauty, and Graham-Dixon analyzes the way in which Købke uses light and shadow to create a sense of harmony and balance in his paintings.

Moving on from Købke, Graham-Dixon explores the work of the Skagen Painters, a group of Danish artists who lived and worked in the northern town of Skagen during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These artists, including P.S. Krøyer and Michael Ancher, were fascinated by the unique light and landscapes of Skagen, and captured them in their paintings with a unique blend of naturalism and impressionism.

The Skagen Painters were also known for their depictions of everyday life in the town, including the fishermen and their families who made up the local community. Graham-Dixon visits the Skagen Museum, where he examines some of these paintings and discusses their significance as portraits of an important period in Danish history.

Alongside the more traditional art forms of painting and sculpture, Once Upon a Time in Denmark also explores the world of Danish design. Denmark has a long history of producing beautiful and functional objects, from furniture to jewellery to clothing, and Graham-Dixon visits the Design Museum in Copenhagen to learn more about this rich heritage.

Of particular interest is the work of Hans J. Wegner, a hugely influential furniture designer who created some of the most iconic pieces of furniture of the mid-20th century. Graham-Dixon examines some of Wegner's most famous designs, including the Wishbone Chair and the Round Chair, and explores how these pieces continue to influence modern design.

Finally, Once Upon a Time in Denmark also takes a look at the world of Danish literature. Denmark has a rich literary tradition, dating back to the golden age of Hans Christian Andersen in the 19th century. Graham-Dixon visits the home of Andersen in Odense, where he learns more about the author's life and work.

He also examines the work of other important Danish writers, including Karen Blixen (best known for Out of Africa) and Peter Høeg (author of the international bestseller Smilla's Sense of Snow), and discusses the way in which Danish literature has been influenced by the country's long history and strong sense of identity.

Overall, Once Upon a Time in Denmark provides a fascinating insight into the artistic and cultural heritage of this beautiful and vibrant country, from its traditional art forms to its modern design innovations. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history and culture of Denmark, or in the wider world of art and design.