Gardens of Glass by Dale Chihuly is more than just an exhibit. It is a journey into the world of glass art, a showcase of the creativity and innovation of the artist, and a tribute to the beauty and diversity of nature. The exhibit features stunning installations of glass sculptures, inspired by flowers, plants, trees, and landscapes, that blend seamlessly with the natural and urban environments they are set in. How did Chihuly become one of the most influential and celebrated glass artists of our time? What are the techniques and materials he uses to create his unique and mesmerizing works of art? And what can we learn from them about the art and science of glass, and the connection between humans and nature? Join me as we explore the wonder and magic of Gardens of Glass by Dale Chihuly.

Fabergé eggs are more than just ornaments. They are treasures of history and craftsmanship, a testament to the splendour and tragedy of the Romanov dynasty, and a symbol of the artistic genius of Peter Carl Fabergé. The eggs were made of precious metals, gemstones, enamel, and rock crystal, and featured intricate designs and motifs inspired by Russian culture, nature, and mythology. Each egg contains a surprise, such as a miniature replica of a palace, a clockwork elephant, or a portrait of a loved one. How did Fabergé come up with the idea of making these jewelled eggs? What was the story and context behind some of the most notable Imperial eggs and have any of them survived to this day? Join me as we explore the beauty and mystery of Fabergé eggs.

The Kiss by Gustav Klimt is more than just a painting. It is a celebration of love and life, a dazzling display of colour and texture, and a masterpiece of art and history. The painting shows two lovers embracing in a field of flowers, wrapped in a cloak of gold and patterns that evoke the splendour and mystery of ancient civilizations. The painting was created by Klimt at the height of his artistic career, when he was influenced by the Secessionist movement, Symbolism, and Byzantine art. How did Klimt transform a simple kiss into a sublime expression of emotion and beauty? What was the story and context behind this iconic work of art? And what can we learn from it about the human need for love and connection? Join me as we discover the art and magic of The Kiss.

How does an artist create a pair of doors that are considered one of the masterpieces of Renaissance art? Lorenzo Ghiberti designed and executed the Gates of Paradise, a set of gilded bronze doors that adorn the east portal of the Baptistery of San Giovanni in Florence. What was the historical and artistic context of this project? How did Ghiberti use innovative techniques and styles to depict scenes from the Old Testament in ten panels? And what does it reveal about the evolution and expression of humanism and realism in Renaissance art? Join me as we explore the art and story of the Gates of Paradise.

How does an artist create a theme park that is unsuitable for children and exposes the dark side of society? Banksy organised Dismaland, a temporary art project that took place in a disused lido in Weston-super-Mare, England. What was the motivation and the message behind this project? How did it challenge and critique the conventions and expectations of amusement parks and consumer culture? And what does it show us about the role and potential of art as a form of social commentary and activism? Join me as we explore the art and story of Dismaland.

How does an artist create a series of paintings that capture the essence and character of ordinary people? Paul Cézanne painted The Card Players, a group of five oil paintings that depict peasants from his native Provence engaged in a quiet game of cards. What was the inspiration and the process behind this project? How did Cézanne use color, composition, and brushwork to convey the mood and personality of his subjects? And what does it reveal about the role and influence of Cézanne in the history and development of modern art? Join me as we explore the art and story of The Card Players.

How does an artist transform a landscape into a monumental and ephemeral artwork? Christo and Jeanne-Claude draped a curtain of orange fabric across a valley in Colorado, creating a stunning contrast between the natural and the artificial. What was the vision and the challenge of this project? How did it involve the collaboration and participation of many people? And what does it reveal about the relationship between art and environment? Join me as we explore the art and story of Valley Curtain.

How does an artist turn a simple act of sitting into a powerful and provocative performance? Marina Abramović staged The Artist Is Present at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, where she sat silently at a table and invited visitors to sit across from her and share a moment of eye contact. What was the meaning and purpose of this piece? How did it affect the people who participated and witnessed it? And what does it tell us about the nature and possibilities of art and human connection? Join me as we examine the art and impact of The Artist Is Present.

What does it mean to endure hardship and uncertainty in the face of a global crisis? In this episode, we examine the iconic image of the Migrant Mother, a photograph taken by Dorothea Lange in 1936 during the Great Depression. The photo reveals the mother’s strength and resilience, as well as her anxiety and despair, as she tries to provide for her family in a time of scarcity and instability.