Exhibition on Screen: History's Greatest Artists Season 3 Episode 1 Goya

Exhibition on Screen: History's Greatest Artists is a critically acclaimed documentary series that explores the lives and works of some of the world’s most iconic artists. In season 3, episode 1, titled Goya, viewers are taken on a fascinating journey through the life and work of the Spanish master Francisco de Goya.

The episode begins by examining Goya’s early years in Zaragoza, where he first showed an interest in painting. We learn about his apprenticeship with local artists and his move to Madrid in the 1760s, where he quickly found success as a court painter. We see how Goya’s style evolved from the traditional Rococo works of his early career to the darker, more evocative style he developed later on.

The documentary takes us on a tour of some of Goya’s most famous works, including The Third of May 1808, a powerful painting depicting the execution of Spanish citizens by Napoleon’s troops during the Peninsular War. We also see his iconic Black Paintings, a series of haunting and deeply personal works he created late in life.

Throughout the episode, experts in art history provide insightful commentary, shedding light on the complex themes and ideas behind Goya’s work. We hear from Goya scholars, curators, and art critics, who offer their own interpretations of his paintings and offer valuable insight into his life and times.

One of the most fascinating parts of the episode is the exploration of Goya’s relationships with the powerful figures of his day. We see how he navigated the tricky political landscape of late 18th-century Spain, and how his work sometimes got him into trouble with the authorities. We also learn about his friendships with other notable artists and thinkers of the time, including the writer Leandro Fernández de Moratín and the painter Francisco Bayeu.

As with all episodes of Exhibition on Screen, the cinematography is stunning, with beautiful shots of Goya’s paintings and the landscapes that inspired him. We get an up-close look at some of his most intricate works, with the camera capturing every brushstroke and detail.

Overall, Goya is a captivating and deeply informative episode of Exhibition on Screen: History's Greatest Artists. Whether you’re an art history buff or just a casual viewer, it’s an excellent introduction to one of the most important painters of the 18th and 19th centuries, and a fascinating exploration of the ideas and influences that shaped his work.