Ep 2. How Do We Look?

Civilizations is a popular documentary series that explores the roots of human creativity, and how art and culture have been interwoven into the fabric of humanity for centuries. The show is divided into different seasons, each with a specific theme and topic. In the second episode of the first season titled How Do We Look?, the focus is on visual arts and how they have evolved throughout history.

The episode begins by exploring the concept of representation in art. The host of the show, Simon Schama, discusses how the earliest forms of art were not necessarily meant to be aesthetic but instead were focused on representing tangible objects such as animals and landscapes. He goes on to explain that as people began to develop more complex societies, representations of human form and experiences became more common in art.

The show then delves into how different cultures around the world developed their own unique styles of art. Schama takes the viewers on a journey across different continents and time periods, touching on famous works of art and the ideologies behind them. We see how the ancient Egyptians used art to represent their pharaohs, while the Greeks used art to capture their gods and goddesses. We also learn about the importance of totems in Native American culture and how religious art has played a significant role in various cultures around the world.

Next, the show takes a closer look at the art traditions of Asia. We see how the Chinese have a long history of brush painting and calligraphy, which were often used to convey philosophical ideas. Similarly, Japanese art has a long tradition of ukiyo-e prints, which depict scenes from everyday life, and kabuki theatre performances that represent the changes and struggles of that society.

The episode also discusses the role of portraiture in art. Schama points out how portraits often reveal much more than simply an individual’s appearance; they can reveal character, social status, and even psychological state. The show highlights examples of famous portraitists, such as Rembrandt, who was well-known for his ability to capture the inner workings of his subjects.

Towards the end of the episode, the focus shifts to photography and how it has changed our perception of art. Schama discusses how photography not only made the art more accessible but also allowed it to be used for political activism. We see examples of photography being used to capture the brutality of war and document social injustice.

The episode ends with Schama asking viewers to consider how images have an enormous impact on our perception of the world. He raises the question of what makes art truly great and timeless - is it the aesthetics, the cultural context, or something else entirely?

Overall, Civilizations season 1 episode 2 How Do We Look? is a fascinating exploration of visual art and the different ways it has been used across cultures over time. Through a variety of examples, the episode highlights how art can reveal much about a society or culture. It also asks viewers to examine the deeper meaning of art and consider how it impacts our understanding of the world around us.