PBS, with more than 330 member stations, offers all Americans the opportunity to experience the worlds of science, history, nature and public affairs; to hear diverse viewpoints; and to take front row seats to world-class drama and performances.

Exploring art in the age of revolution, war and scientific change.

Civilizations

What Is Art (Good For)?

The rise and fall of progress as an ideology; the civilizing project's contradictions trouble European artists.

The Cult of Progress

Light and color in art, including Gothic cathedrals, Indian court painting and modern art.

Color and Light

Watch TV Networks, Shows and Movies | DIRECTV

The latest movies and must watch shows!

Watch It Welcome to Derry on the HBO Max app, included with an HBO Max subscription.

Data/messaging rates may apply for app download/usage. HBO Max subscription required.

Welcome to your ultimate entertainment destination. Watch new episodes of Jeremy Renner in the new season of Mayor of Kingstown and more all in one network.

Watch exclusive originals like the adventure drama Robin Hood and Hollywood hit movies.

MGM+ is a trademark of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Lion Corp. All copyrights, trademarks, and other intellectual property or proprietary rights are the property of their respective owners.

Watch visionary original series like Power Book IV: Force, Outlander: Blood of My Blood, BMF, The Couple Next Door and much more.

Watch Hollywood hits like Civil War and behind-the-scenes exclusives when you add CINEMAX to your current DIRECTV package.

The role of art and artists in developing human culture.

auxCol1

footer-common

helpCenterInfo

legal

business

options

footer-social

footer

footer-utility

auth

lightLogo

logo

recog

search

unauth

The formative role of art on a global scale; images and artifacts found in Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia and South America; narrator Liev Shreiber.

S1 E1 | The Second Moment of Creation

E9 | What Is Art (Good For)?

E8 | The Cult of Progress

E7 | Color and Light