Watch Nature And Us: A History Through Art

Nature And Us: A History Through Art is a thought-provoking and illuminating documentary series presented by three experts who take the viewer on a journey through time and space to explore humanity's relationship with nature that has existed since prehistoric times.

The three presenters, Chetan Bhatt, Melanie Challenger, and Kathy Willis, are all accomplished scholars and thinkers, and they bring their unique perspectives to the discussion. Chetan Bhatt is a professor of sociology at the London School of Economics and is fascinated by questions of identity, culture and religion in a globalised world. Melanie Challenger is a poet and writer with a deep interest in the intersection of art and ecology, while Kathy Willis is a professor of biodiversity at the University of Oxford and is deeply invested in conserving and understanding the natural world. Together, they offer a truly enlightening and multi-faceted lens through which to view our relationship with nature.

Each episode focuses on a different artistic medium - paintings, literature, sculpture, etc. - to explore how it reflects the changing attitudes of humanity towards nature across different epochs, cultures, and societies. From the Paleolithic cave paintings of Lascaux to contemporary eco-art, the presenters use a wide array of examples to demonstrate how the representation of nature has evolved over time.

The series is not just a history lesson but also an examination of our current state of affairs. Each episode highlights how art has been both a reflection of and a catalyst for cultural transformation, and invites us to look at how we can learn from the past to address the pressing issues of today, from climate change to biodiversity loss. By analyzing the ways that artists from different times and places have approached nature, the show encourages the viewer to consider how they view the natural world and their place within it.

One of the standout features of Nature And Us: A History Through Art is the exquisite curation of the artworks presented. The series features works of art from a diverse range of cultures and periods, including pieces by well-known artists like John Constable, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Henry Moore, as well as lesser-known painters, poets, and sculptors. Each artwork is carefully contextualised, both historically and thematically, and the presenters offer insights into the artist's intentions, the cultural and social forces at work at the time of the work's creation, and how it has been interpreted over time.

The production values of the show are also commendable. The cinematography is stunning, and the visuals range from sweeping shots of natural landscapes to up-close details of brushstrokes and materials that make the artworks come alive. The show also features interviews with a range of experts, including artists, curators, historians, and environmentalists, who offer a variety of perspectives and insights.

Overall, Nature And Us: A History Through Art is a highly recommended series that blends history, philosophy, and climate science to explore the enduring relationship between humanity and nature. Its multi-disciplinary approach makes it an accessible and engaging watch for viewers of all backgrounds, and its message is one that has never been more important than it is today. If you are interested in the environment, art, or history, then this show is not to be missed.

Nature And Us: A History Through Art is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (3 episodes). The series first aired on October 31, 2021.