Understanding Art: Baroque & Rococo

Understanding Art: Baroque & Rococo is an educational television series from RLJ Entertainment released in 2014. This enlightening journey through the visually stunning art history spotlights two significant art styles that shaped Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries: Baroque and Rococo. Through an enriching blend of archives, graphics, location footage, and analysis from art experts, the series delivers insightful perspectives on these fascinating periods in art.

The series begins by exploring the Baroque period, a dramatic, sculptural art movement that spanned the late 16th to mid 18th centuries. Originating from Italy following the Renaissance, the powerful visual effect of Baroque artistic style had a significant impact on architecture, painting, sculpture, and other arts. The series invites the viewer to marvel at the grandeur of these works that often depict intense light and shade, high drama, exuberant vitality, and engagement with the viewer.

Key figures of the Baroque era, like the genius of Caravaggio, the drama of Peter Paul Rubens, the magnificence of architecture by Christopher Wren, and the vivacious sculptures of Bernini, are central to this exploration. It makes you witness not just the art but the artist’s stories too - how their personal beliefs, environments, and historic events of the time shaped their creations. Apparent in the course is the recounting of how the Roman Catholic Church commissioned Baroque art to compete with the Protestant church during the Counter-Reformation, infusing religious intensity and fervor into the art.

The latter half of the series takes you to the Rococo era, where art leaves religious and political drama to embrace whimsy, charm, and playful elegance. Often seen as an extension of Baroque, Rococo is lighter, more graceful yet ornate and complex. It's often referred to as the 'Late Baroque' period; however, its distinctness lies in its focus on enchanting interiors, love themes and playful excesses, contrasting the grandeur and seriousness of Baroque era.

The Rococo phase introduces influential artists such as Antoine Watteau and François Boucher whose works illustrate the carefree life of the aristocrats and the use of light pastel shades and twisted shells, flowers, and intricate patterns are common elements described. Understanding Art brings forward the underlying symbolisms in the artwork, providing background to the French elite's desire to escape the strict societal rules during this time, often reflected in the art.

Each episode in Understanding Art: Baroque & Rococo is masterfully designed to guide the viewer through an art movement’s timeline, highlighting its key characteristics and its impact on the generations that followed. The narratives also provide essential context to understand the cultural, social, and political circumstances surrounding the creation of the masterpieces. For instance, the Baroque period's exploration captures the turbulent times of the Counter-Reformation, and the Rococo period focuses on the upper-class life pre-French Revolution.

The series goes the extra mile by presenting captivating on-location footage right from the heart of Europe – Rome, Paris, London and beyond – giving viewers an immersive experience. From the sculpted churches and piazzas of Rome to the gilded halls of France's Palace of Versailles, viewers get to virtually explore these historic landmarks.

Understanding Art: Baroque & Rococo does more than a presentation of beautiful works of art; it attempts to convey why these pieces matter, what they meant at the time of their creation, and how they continue to influence art and culture. Viewers of this series will gain a deeper appreciation of the major art movements' nuances: Baroque and Rococo, together with a detailed understanding of some of the most beloved and influential artists of the time.

This captivating series caters to both art enthusiasts wishing to deepen their understanding of these artistic periods and novices willing to embark on an introductory journey. As such, Understanding Art: Baroque & Rococo manages to merge education and entertainment in a seamless blend, making art history accessible and enjoyable for all viewers.