back
What is a masterpiece?
The history of art is full of "masterpieces", those creations that are now considered cultural icons. But what is a masterpiece? And why are some works more famous than others? Well, sometimes it's linked to the artist, the historical context, the technical innovation, a scandal or a shroud of mystery... If you want to dive into the history of some masterpieces, you’re in the right place!
In 1980, the National Galleries of Scotland bought a painting by American pop artist Roy Lichtenstein for £100,000, and were greeted with uproar that so much money had been spent on a comic book. From its controversial origins, how has ‘In The Car’ become such an iconic artwork? What makes a painting iconic? Who decides what art is worth? Why can’t I touch artworks when I’m in a gallery? Check back weekly for new videos, and get involved in the comments below.
Narrated by Blanche Anderson.
Content produced by: National Galleries of Scotland
On the agenda
video - 9:11
What makes an artwork iconic?
By: National Galleries of Scotland
video - 5:39
How the Mona Lisa became so overrated ?
By: Vox Media
video - 5:37
Why is the Mona Lisa so famous?
By: Ted Ed
video - 12:03
Masterpieces of the Uffizi: Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli, Perugino
By:
video - 6:30
How American Gothic became an icon
By: Vox Media
video - 2:07
Picasso, a man of influence
By: Réunion des musées nationaux - Grand Palais
video - 12:55
Contemporary art in 5 masterpieces
By: Centre Pompidou
video - 13:59
The Definition of Art
By: The Art Assignment
video - 5:31
Is there a difference between art and craft?
By: Ted Ed
