The Backstory Podcast

On October 3, artist Nan Goldin joined collector and friend Michael Zilkha for an intimate conversation about art, Goldin's oeuvre, and the PMA exhibition of her work, on view through December 31, 2017. Moderated by PMA Deputy Director and Robert and Elizabeth Nanovic Chief Curator Jessica May.

Worthy of History: Tim Rollins & K.O.S. by The PMA

2015 PMA Biennial artist Michael Kolster has spent the last 4 years photographing rivers around the country, with specific focus on the Androscoggin, which borders studio in Brunswick, Maine. In this episode of The Backstory, Michael draws parallels between his photographic process and the inherent nature of rivers, while connecting the history of industry, pollution, and the birth of the Clean Water Act to the Androscoggin, making a strong environmental case for why these rivers—no longer pristine but still beautiful and vital places—need to be protected for future generations.

In this touching episode of The Backstory, photographer Rose Marasco narrates the moments that brought her to Utica, New York in 1988 to photograph the Saint Rosalie Feast—and how that project affected her life and photographic career.

Andrew Eschelbacher, Susan Donnell and Harry W. Konkel Assistant Curator of European Art, on how the themes of seaside and leisure play out through The Coast & the Sea.

Andrew Eschelbacher, Susan Donnell and Harry W. Konkel Assistant Curator of European Art, on how The Coast & the Sea: Marine and Maritime Art in America is a reflection of ourselves and the meaning of the sea.

Andrew Eschelbacher, Susan Donnell and Harry W. Konkel Assistant Curator of European Art, on how The Coast & the Sea: Marine and Maritime Art in America has something for everyone.

An investigation into how social and historical theory can influence how we interpret works of art, through an examination of David Roberts' artwork and Edward Said's Orientalism.

In the late 18th century, legendary painter Benjamin West spent 20 years on a painting for King George III—all for naught.

Image Credit: Benjamin West (United States, 1738-1820)

The Ascension, 1801

Oil on canvas, 49 1/2 x 34 inches

The Berger Collection at the Denver Art Museum, TL-17385