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Artists Confront the End of the World 🌋
Fires, collapses, floods, volcanic eruptions, plagues and other disasters: the Apocalypse is an inexhaustible source of inspiration. From the Middle Ages to the present day, artists have captured our collective fears about the end of the world, transforming anguish into startling visions. How does art become a mirror for our deepest anxieties? What symbols span the centuries to speak to us of destruction and renewal? Between fascination and terror, discover the extraordinary impact of apocalyptic motifs throughout the history of art.

It’s a bustling day in Pompeii. After a quick visit to the market, Fabia spots her brothers, Lucius and Marcus, crossing the Forum. The siblings begin discussing Lucius’ wedding — but a deafening boom interrupts them. They watch Vesuvius spew smoke, ash, and rock — and realize they’ve been living in the shadow of a volcano. Gary Devore follows the siblings as they attempt to survive the disaster.

Lesson by Gary Devore, directed by Totem Creative.

Content produced byTED Ed

On the agenda
video - 5:30
Run, sail, or hide? How to survive the destruction of Pompeii
By: Ted Ed
video - 8:20
The Message Behind Pablo Picasso’s Guernica?
By: Behind the masterpiece
video - 15:00
The Raft of the Medusa by Theodore Gericault
By: Great Art Explained
video - 9:07
Painting Hiroshima
By: Shawn Grenier | The Canvas
video - 12:19
Why This Artist Kept Painting The Apocalypse
By: Shawn Grenier | The Canvas
video - 4:05
John Martin
By: Tate