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Episode 2

Episode 2 of 4

Lachlan Goudie traces the development of Scottish art. This episode examines the 18th century, a period that heralded the greatest blossoming of Scottish artistry in its history.

The 18th century heralded the greatest blossoming of Scottish artistry in its history. The most powerful and influential figures in Britain clamoured to have their portraits painted by Allan Ramsey and Henry Raeburn and their houses designed by Robert Adam; they stood in awe at the epic Highland landscapes of Horatio McCulloch and wept at the sensitive genre paintings of David Wilkie.

Scots artist Lachlan Goudie explores how the intellectual revolution of the Enlightenment and the classical influence of the continent gave these artists the confidence and the inspiration to forge a whole new artistic landscape.

From dusty storerooms of Edinburgh to the dazzling antiquities of ancient Rome this is a journey of startling contrasts - between the past and the future, between the forces of reason and romance, between Presbyterian restraint and unfettered emotion. Out of the ashes of the Reformation a new culture identity was beginning to emerge and it was built on art.

59 minutes

Music Played

  • Bbc Philharmonic: Terry Davies

    Carnival

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter Lachlan Goudie
Series Producer Matthew Springford
Executive Producer Pauline Law
Executive Producer David Harron
Producer Tim Niel
Director Tim Niel

Broadcasts

Adventures in colour: How Scottish artists sought inspiration in exotic places

Lachlan Goudie writes about Scottish artists' inspiration in exotic locations

Majestic stags and heather-clad hillsides: Our role in promoting the clich茅d view of Scotland

Lachlan Goudie reveals how the clich茅d view of Scotland was actually of our own making.