This Is Modern Art (1999)

This Is Modern Art, a documentary series from 1999, dives into the evolution of contemporary art. It’s a journey through the radical changes that began with Picasso and flowed through the works of Jackson Pollock to Andy Warhol. These artists redefined what art could be, and this series explores that seismic shift.

Matthew Collings, the British art critic, serves as our guide. He brings a sharp eye and a witty narrative to the table, making art history both accessible and engaging. The series won a BAFTA award, a testament to its quality and impact.

Now, let’s break it down. The series consists of six episodes, each tackling a different aspect of modern art. The titles themselves – I Am a Genius, Shock Horror, and Lovely Lovely, to name a few – hint at the boldness of the content.

Episode one starts with a bang. It’s about self-belief and the artist’s role in society. Episode two goes into the shock value of art, how it’s used, and why it matters. By episode three, we’re looking at beauty in art, and what that concept means today.

Collings doesn’t just tell us about art; he shows us. He takes us to galleries, to studios, and into the minds of the artists. We see firsthand how a 1970s glam-rock boot becomes a piece of art when placed on a foam-rubber plinth. It’s a nod to Duchamp and the idea that context can transform an object into art.

But wait, let me tell you something. This isn’t just a history lesson. It’s a conversation about what art is and what it could be. It’s about the boundaries artists push and the reactions they provoke.

By now, you should be getting a sense of the depth and breadth of this series. It’s not just about the big names; it’s about the ideas they represent. It’s about how those ideas have shaped the world of art and, by extension, the world at large.

And it doesn’t stop there. The series also touches on the commercial aspect of art. How does the market affect what’s created and displayed? How do artists balance integrity with survival?

In my experience, this is where This Is Modern Art really shines. It’s honest about the tensions between art and commerce, and it doesn’t shy away from the difficult questions.

As if that’s not enough, the series also delves into the technical side of art. We learn about the materials and methods artists use. We see how a simple change in technique can alter the entire meaning of a piece.

This Is Modern Art is a must-watch for anyone interested in the past, present, and future of art. It’s a series that educates, entertains, and most importantly, inspires.