The High Art of the Low Countries

The High Art of the Low Countries is a captivating documentary series from CuriosityStream that was first released in 2013. The series spans three episodes, each lasting roughly one hour, in which art historian and broadcaster Andrew Graham-Dixon travels through the Low Countries, exploring the rich art, history, and culture of this region in northern Europe.

Andrew Graham-Dixon is well-known for his scholarly insights into art and his passion for culture that is quite infectious. He is an articulate, knowledgeable guide who delves into the history and meaning of art while making it accessible to the viewers. In The High Art of the Low Countries, he presents a comprehensive study of the art and culture that emerged from the Low Countries – present-day Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.

The first episode titled "Dream of Plenty" sets the stage by unveiling the region's early history and the beginnings of its artistic influence. As the birthplace of modern capitalism and an active center of global trade during the Middle Ages, the Low Countries wielded considerable financial power. This wealth, coupled with a unique urban and social structure, fostered a cultural and artistic explosion. However, art from this era was not merely decorative. It reflected an innovative vision and functioned as a response to broader societal changes, from Christian devotion to the emergence of mercantile society. The works of Jan Van Eyck and Pieter Bruegel are at the center in this episode, presenting the rise of the Low Countries as a powerful artistic hub.

Episode two, "Boom and Bust," delves into the Dutch Golden Age, arguably one of the most significant eras in art history. It paints a complex picture of a society that was facing the paradox of plenty. The enormous wealth generated by international trade, science, and military power led to an explosion of artistic output. Andrew explores works by artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Rubens - masters of their time who captured the highs and lows of human emotion in their work. The art of the Golden Age reflected the society’s mood, the promise of wealth, the threat of warfare, and the challenge of prosperity.

The final episode, "Survivors," tracks the path from the grandeur of the Dutch Golden Age to the modern era. The Low Countries – shaken by revolution, warfare, and political twists – channel their resilience and endurance into art and culture. Theodore Gericault, Vincent van Gogh, Piet Mondrian, and René Magritte are some of the names that feature prominently in this part of the journey. Their collective output charts blackest despair, rawest beauty, and, ultimately, hope.

Throughout the series, Andrew Graham-Dixon gestures towards larger themes beyond the artwork themselves. He discusses how art can mirror the political, social, and economic realities of its time, and how even today, the art of the Low Countries continues to impact and inspire. The tone is light, even as it engages with heavy historical realities, maintaining the balance just right – not too scholarly, not oversimplified.

The High Art of the Low Countries also represents its subject vividly and evocatively. It is beautifully filmed and makes good use of on-location filming, with Andrew Graham-Dixon engaging directly with the environment, landscape, and the artworks. The series often lets the art speak for itself, meditating on the details of the paintings and sculptures, allowing viewers to form their own insights and interpretations.

Summary aside, the series raises the bar by offering the audience a deep sense of appreciation for the art and culture of the Low Countries. It serves a form of 'art tour' for those who might not be able to experience these masterpieces firsthand. You will not only gain facts and historical context but also a more profound emotional connection to centuries-old art that still continues to resonate today.

Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a lover of rich, well-produced documentaries, The High Art of the Low Countries is a must-watch. Its blend of vibrant visuals, compelling storytelling, engaging commentary, and powerful art offers a pleasing viewing experience that both educates and entertains.