Welcome to Curious Muse! We bring the best of arts and culture stories from around the world. Our episodes will make you feel curious, learn new things and have a good time too. We cover a wide range of topics - visual and performing arts, literature and history, architecture and design, fashion and more - explained in a cool, digital way. If you enjoy Curious Muse and would like to support us please become our patreon. All donations will go 100% towards creating more great content for you. Thank you! https://curiousmuse.org/
Art of the Loot: Why Top Museums Keep Stolen Artefacts? š§
It doesnāt matter where you live, if you have a social media account, youāve probably seen work by Yayoi Kusama. Who is this Japanese lady thatās taken over our feeds, whatās the deal with her affinity for polka dots, and what makes her installations so picturesque, cutting-edge, and Instagram worthy? Keep watching to find out, and donāt forget to like and subscribe for more art content from Curious Muse!
#Kusama #Art #CuriousMuse_Art
by CURIOUS MUSE
7/1/2022 ā¢ 7 minutes, 24 seconds
Deconstructivism Explained: Architecture Pushed To The Limit?
In todayās episode, we are going to learn about Deconstructivism, an architectural style that forever changed the course of architecture.
#Deconstructivism #Architecture #CuriousMuse_Architecture
6/25/2022 ā¢ 5 minutes, 37 seconds
Vienna Secession in 8 Minutes š¦š¹ Klimt's Femmes Fatales and Passion for Gold š
When people hear the words Vienna Secession they usually think of Gustav Klimt and his famous paintings. But there is much more to this artistic movement. It brought innovations to Austrian architecture, graphic arts, and furniture design.
Grab a seat in the Curious Muse time machine and let's travel back to the end of the 19th century when Vienna Secession was born!
#ViennaSecession #Art #Klimt
by CURIOUS MUSE
5/15/2022 ā¢ 8 minutes, 16 seconds
Existentialism in 8 Minutes: What Life Is Good For? š¤
If youāve ever caught yourself questioning existence, our place in the universe, or even asked yourself what the meaning of life is, then you have taken part in existential philosophy. But what exactly is existentialism?
#Existentialism #Philosophy #CuriousMuse
by CURIOUS MUSE
4/28/2022 ā¢ 7 minutes, 28 seconds
Abstract Expressionism in 8 Minutes: From 'Jack The Dripper' to Color Fields šµš”
What is Abstract Expressionism? How did it skyrocket in popularity across the globe, and why does it hold a dominant position in the history of modern art to this day? Who started it? Who celebrated it? And what was so radical about Jackson PolloŃk's art that earned him a nickname "Jack the Dripper"?
#AbstractExpressionism #Art #CuriousMuse
by CURIOUS MUSE
3/31/2022 ā¢ 7 minutes, 15 seconds
Pop Art in 7 Minutes: True Art or Mass Market? š¤
What comes to your mind when you hear the phrase Pop Art? If the first thing you think of is Andy Warhol and cans of Campbellās Soup, you aren't alone. The 1962 series depicting different flavors of that popular meal is one of the most iconic works of not just Pop Art but modern art in general. What makes Pop Art so special? How did a single picture of a $1.48 can of soup end up costing $11.8 million at auction in 2006?
In our new episode, we will give you an overview of everything Pop Art: how it emerged, who was involved, what role it played in history, and what the deal was with all those soup cans and Coca-Cola bottles.
#PopArt #Art #CuriousMuse
by CURIOUS MUSE
3/11/2022 ā¢ 6 minutes, 28 seconds
Brutalist Architecture in 6 Minutes: Ugly or Beautiful? š¤
Can concrete be beautiful? Proponents of Brutalism certainly thought so. The general public, however, remains divided. While some view brutalist buildings as monstrosities and the greatest sin in the history of architecture, others consider them architectural landmarks with historical, cultural, and personal value.
In this episode, we will explain the idea behind this genre of modernism that has become synonymous with dystopian films (A Clockwork Orange, Blade Runner 2049, and Resident Evil: Afterlife) and perhaps inspire a newfound appreciation for brutalist buildings. Stay tuned!
#Brutalism #Architecture #CuriousMuse
by CURIOUS MUSE
2/21/2022 ā¢ 5 minutes, 45 seconds
Expressionism in 8 Minutes: The Most Disturbing Art Ever? š±
Expressionism was an international movement of the early 20th century and it was present not only in art but in architecture, theatre, cinema, dance, and literature too! The roots of the expressionist aesthetic can be found in post-impressionist and symbolist artworks, but also in proto-expressionist works like Edvard Munchās Scream! So letās dive into the most expressive period in art history together!
#Expressionism #Art #CuriousMuse
by CURIOUS MUSE
1/12/2022 ā¢ 7 minutes, 33 seconds
The Step-by-Step Guide to Classical Opera: How to Become A Regular at the Opera Houseš
In the public consciousness, opera has long been associated with the negative imagery of the upper classes ā many people believe opera is overly snobbish, heavy, elitist, and out of touch with the modern pace of life. But the truth is that there is so much more to the opera; thereās drama, acting, singing, instrumental play, and dance ā all of which can be a salvation for modern people who are tired of the same old monotonous entertainment.
But with so much history and so many years of amazing operas to talk about, where should we begin? First and foremost, we should begin with a few common fears and insecurities of modern audiences. To help you overcome the stigmas associated with opera, weāre going to offer a few simple steps that will help you become a regular at the opera house in no time!
#Opera #Theatre #CuriousMuse
by CURIOUS MUSE
12/14/2021 ā¢ 10 minutes, 42 seconds
Nietzsche Philosophy in 5 Minutes: How to Make Your Life A Work of Art? š§
š§ What does it mean to say that God is dead, or that Christian morality is āSlave Moralityā? How does Nietzsche think we should live, and think, differently? What is the Ćbermensch, the will to power?
š Nietzsche wrote many influential books, and wrote on everything from art, music, and tragic literature to death, ethics, and time. His philosophy has a reputation for being difficult, and sometimes even contradictory, inspiring decades of scholarship and interpretation. However, much of Nietzscheās work returns to a central theme: making your life a work of art.
š Curious to learn more? Watch our latest episode to find out!
by CURIOUS MUSE
11/27/2021 ā¢ 4 minutes, 36 seconds
Art Nouveau in 8 Minutes: Why It Has Never Gone Away? š¤·
Art Nouveau was a highly decorative art movement started by the new middle-class, which established itself in cities throughout Europe and the United States at the turn of the century.
It was a genuinely cosmopolitan project of modernity that existed in all sorts of media, forms, scales, and geographies. Everything from architecture, interior design, decorative arts, fashion and graphic design was influenced by this new art. It was literally new since the term Art Nouveau is a French word for "new art."
So what was so new about it? Let's find out!
by CURIOUS MUSE
11/12/2021 ā¢ 7 minutes, 26 seconds
The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci: Why Dan Brown Was Wrong? š
The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci is one of the most iconic paintings ever created. There is no debating that. In this single work, da Vinci combined all of his masterful technique and skill. There is so much to unpack here so today we are going to explain the genius of the classic fresco and whether it really depicts Mary Magdalene, as Dan Brown wrote in the Da Vinci Code.
#TheLastSupper #DaVinci #Art
BY CURIOUS MUSE
10/31/2021 ā¢ 5 minutes, 17 seconds
Fauvism in 4 Minutes: The Wild Beasts of Art š¹
The early 20th-century movement called FAUVISM started in 1905 in France and lasted for just a couple of years. The best-known fauvist art was created by three amazing artists: Henri Matisse, Andre Derain, and Maurice de Vlaminck.
The movement was short-lived but had a huge impact on the art of the 20th century. So let's find out why it's so special!
#Fauvism #Art #CuriousMuse
BY CURIOUS MUSE
10/15/2021 ā¢ 4 minutes, 15 seconds
Post-Impressionism in 7 Minutes: How It Transformed The Rules of Art š§āšØ
You have surely heard these names - Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, Paul Cezanneā¦ Their masterpieces represent the art movement that radically transformed the world - and greatly influenced the art that you love to this very day. Itās called Post-Impressionism.
In this episode from Curious Muse, we will find out more about this famous, pivotal period in art history.
#PostImpressionism #Art #CuriousMuse
10/1/2021 ā¢ 6 minutes, 58 seconds
Impressionism in 8 Minutes: How It Changed Art Forever šØ
When you think of art in the 1800s you might imagine grand historical subjects, mythological scenes, and traditional themes, lots of them! Well, thatās what art used to be before impressionists changed the course of it forever!
Why is Impressionism considered such an important art movement? What was so groundbreaking about it? Why do we think of impressionists as the pioneers of modern art? Many questions but weāve got the answers, so letās get into it!
curiousmuse.org
9/19/2021 ā¢ 7 minutes, 55 seconds
Art Deco in 9 Minutes: Why Is It The Most Popular Architectural Style? š½
Symbolism in 10 Minutes: Why Is It The Most Mysterious Art Movement? š±
What is Symbolism? Who were the artists who painted symbolist paintings? What was Paul Gauguin searching for when he traveled to Tahiti? And what is Edvard Munch telling us with his famous painting The Scream? Let's find out more about the late 19th-century art movement called Symbolism.
With contributions from De Morgan Collection
#Symbolism #Art #CuriousMuse
8/21/2021 ā¢ 9 minutes, 30 seconds
Miyazaki Universe in 8 Minutes: What's Behind The Iconic Anime? š¢
Hayao Miyazaki is a legend in the world of animation. Director, manga artist, producer, and co-founder of Studio Ghibli, Miyazaki is one of the most beloved and well-known Japanese artists of all time ā and for good reason. When you watch a Miyazaki film, itās easy to see the care and attention that goes into every single frame. But why is his style so distinguishable, even among thousands of other great anime films?
In this week's episode, we will try to go beyond mere technique to grasp the philosophy and underlying vision of one of Japanās greatest directors ā Hayao Miyazaki. So, letās get started!
#Miyazaki #Animation #CuriousMuse
CURIOUS MUSE
8/13/2021 ā¢ 7 minutes, 1 second
Sparta in 11 Minutes: What Made Spartans The Biggest Force in Ancient Greece? šļø
The Spartans. Known for instilling fear in the hearts of their enemies at the very sight of them, this ancient Greek city state rocketed back into public consciousness with Zack Snyderās infamous film, ā300ā.
Who were the Spartans? What role did Sparta play in the ancient world? What made them a force to be reckoned with among the Greeks?
This is Sparta Explained.
#Sparta #History #CuriousMuse
CURIOUS MUSE
7/24/2021 ā¢ 9 minutes, 11 seconds
Digital Art in 9 Minutes: From Early Computing Technologies To Crypto NFT Hype
The history of art is long and complex. It starts with the earliest creations using stone, wood, bronze, and natural pigments. Then, it ventures through the 15th Century, with the introduction of oil on canvas, before moving to the acrylics, sprays, and markers of the 20th Century.
In this week's story, we want to fast forward to the latest trend in the realm of art: the digital revolution. This new age of digital technologies brought with it the widest range of instruments for contemporary creators. The new nature of digital art ā computer born, immersive, and interactive ā make it perfect for both artistic creativity and viewer engagement.
The COVID-19 pandemic only accelerated this phenomenon, which has been in development for the past 70 years! So, this begs an important question: what is digital art? Today, we will answer this question and take a detailed dive into the history of the movement.
#DigitalArt #Art #CuriousMuse
7/11/2021 ā¢ 8 minutes, 35 seconds
Zaha Hadid in 7 Minutes: What Makes Her Architecture So Extraordinary?
Often known as the "Queen of the Curve," Zaha Hadid was one of the most admired and extraordinary architects of her time. Forbes even named her among the 100 most powerful women in the world. Her daring and unconventional buildings tiptoe the line between fantasy and reality, changing our understanding of what architecture can do. She has won some of the world's top honors in the realm of architecture, including the Pritzker Prize.
So, why are Zaha Hadidās buildings so extraordinary? What influences her signature style? Finally, is it true that her inspiration comes from the āBlack Squareā author, Kazimir Malevich? Keep watching to find out!
#ZahaHadid #Architecture #CuriousMuse
https://curiousmuse.org/
6/25/2021 ā¢ 5 minutes, 48 seconds
The History of Pirates: From Ancient to Digital Piracy in 13 Minutes
Pirates. Few subjects capture our collective imagination more. In recent times, pirates have been the inspiration for countless books, movies, costumes, theme park rides, video gamesā¦ movies again, more movies, very, very... long movies.
But far from the cuddly, non-threatening image of pirates that prevails today, these were some of the most feared individuals in history. And, as we will see, the legacy of their rich, complex histories very much impacts our world today.
#Pirates #History #CuriousMuse
https://curiousmuse.org/
6/12/2021 ā¢ 13 minutes, 9 seconds
Magical Realism In 6 Minutes: Literary Fantasy or Fantastic Literature? š
Magical realism is an interesting word combination that is used often, but usually with little understanding. So, what is magical realism? Isnāt this term a contradiction? Is magical realism just a variation of the fantasy genre? Letās investigate!
In this video we'll explore:
šWhat is required of magical realism as a literary genre?
šWho are the most important writers?
šWhere did it receive the bigggest influence?
šWhat are the most exciting books to read?
#MagicalRealism #Literature #CuriousMuse
https://curiousmuse.org/
5/28/2021 ā¢ 6 minutes, 17 seconds
Dadaism in 8 Minutes: Can Everything Be Art?
Why is an urinal considered a piece of art? What does the word Dada represent? What are Dada soirees? What does Dadaist poetry sound like? And can everything and anything become a work of art if we chose to declare it art? In this episode, you'll find out the answers to these questions and learn more about the famous art movement called DADAISM.
#Dadaismā #Artā #CuriousMuseā
5/15/2021 ā¢ 7 minutes, 6 seconds
Vincent Van Gogh in 7 Minutes: The Man Behind An Iconic Art
An obsession with sunflowers, a mutilated ear, and a melancholic temperament; these are just a few characteristics of a truly great artist: Vincent van Gogh.
He spent years in relative obscurity, putting his depression onto canvas, only to become one of the most celebrated artists of all time. But can these innocuous details really summarize such an iconic figure in the art world? Was Van Gogh a mad genius or simply a great artist who was years ahead of his time?
Let's explore the life of Vincent van Gogh and discover the man behind the art.
#VanGoghā #Artā #CuriousMuseā
4/24/2021 ā¢ 6 minutes, 31 seconds
Louis Vuitton in 5 Minutes: The Story of Becoming a Cult Fashion Brand
2021 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Louis Vuitton ā the man behind one of the most successful luxury brands in the world!
What better way to celebrate the life of such a fashion legend than to examine the history and cult-status of Louis Vuitton?
Once just a small company with limited supplies, Louis Vuitton has since grown into one of the most recognizable manufacturers of luxury luggage, handbags, clothing, accessories, and even perfume.
So, letās take a look back at the early days of Louis Vuitton to see just how the company reached such great heights!
#LouisVuittonā #Fashionā #CuriousMuse
4/13/2021 ā¢ 5 minutes, 5 seconds
Cubism in 9 Minutes: Art Movement by Pablo Picasso Explained
Youāre probably familiar with the work of Pablo Picasso, but how much do you know about Cubism ā the art movement he invented with his friend and fellow artist George Braque? Moreover, what is Cubism, and why is it considered such a radical movement? In this video, you will learn about one of the most groundbreaking movements of the 20th century that changed the course of art history forever.
#Cubismā #Picassoā #Art
3/31/2021 ā¢ 7 minutes, 20 seconds
Bauhaus in 7 Minutes: Revolutionary Design Movement Explained
šØāšØ For many artists, architects, and historians, the Bauhaus is a symbol of modernism and artistic ingenuity. However, to the vast majority of people, the Bauhaus seems like a rather peculiar and short-lived German art school.
šŖ In this episode, we'll find out what Bauhaus is and why it became the most influential design movement of the 20th century.
#Bauhausāā #Designāā #CuriousMuseā #CuriousMuse_Design
3/14/2021 ā¢ 6 minutes, 25 seconds
Harry Potter in 7 Minutes: The Hidden Myths & Legends Explained
Since 1997, over half a billion copies of the Harry Potter books have been sold, making it the best selling book series of all time. The Harry Potter film series is the third highest grossing series of all time, only falling behind the Star Wars and Marvel franchises.
So, how did JK Rowling do it? Well, if the answer isnāt witchcraft, it just might be the sheer number of cultural, historical, and literary allusions packed into her wizarding universe. In many ways, the world of Harry Potter is a meeting point for centuries of myth.
Hereās a look at some of the many hidden myths and legends packed into the wizarding world.
#HarryPotter #Film #CuriousMuse
2/27/2021 ā¢ 6 minutes, 31 seconds
The World's Top 5 Ghost Cities
How does a thriving metropolis turn into a desolate ghost city? Let's explore the answer while taking a look at some of the most famous and curious ghost cities from around the world:
Angkor
Pompeii
Chernobyl
Hashima Island
Tianducheng
#GhostTowns #Architecture #CuriousMuse
2/21/2021 ā¢ 5 minutes, 10 seconds
How European Art Borrowed Ideas From All Over the World
African sculptures, Oceanic ritual masks, Japanese woodblock printsā¦Today, you can turn to Google to see thousands of pieces of artwork from around the world. However, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, non-Western art just started to make its way to Europe. Works from abroad fascinated European artists with their beautiful aesthetics, subtle color palettes, unique perspectives, and non-traditional subject matters. Their influence was so significant that one could feasibly argue that 20th-century Modernism would not exist without them.
In this episode, letās find out how Non-Western art manifested itself in the works of avant-garde European artists: Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, Amedeo Modigliani, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso.
#AvantGarde #Art #CuriousMuse
2/14/2021 ā¢ 6 minutes, 32 seconds
Alchemy Explained: Is It Science or Magic?
Contrary to the image in your mind, alchemy is not about robed, wizard-like figures involved in some occult practice in his dimly lit apothecary. The practice is old ā ancient, in fact ā but what is alchemy, really? Is it science or is it magic? What does it have to do with the philosopherās stone?
In this episode, letās find out what alchemy is! #Alchemyā #Historyā #CuriousMuse
1/30/2021 ā¢ 6 minutes, 13 seconds
Surrealism in 5 Minutes: What Inspired the Art Movement
You've probably heard of Salvador Dali, Rene Magritte, or Frida Kahlo. These surrealist artists created many amazing artworks. But do you know about the philosophy behind the movement? What does Freud have to do with Surrealism? Why did Dali show us his dreams and nightmares? And why did Magritte paint an image of āraining menā?
Letās find out in this story!
#Surrealism #Art #CuriousMuse
1/17/2021 ā¢ 4 minutes, 24 seconds
Fridamania: The Life And Art of Frida Kahlo
This week we take an in-depth and immersive look into the life of the iconic Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo. In this podcast, you'll learn about the key moments and experiences that shaped Frida and her art. From suffering multiple injuries to surviving turbulent relationships, Frida proved to be larger than life in her drive to live and create.
#FridaKahlo #Art #CuriousMuse
1/9/2021 ā¢ 8 minutes, 8 seconds
Geisha Explained: Facts And Myths About The Mysterious Japanese Tradition
Almost everyone has heard of Geishas, and can recognize one by their distinctive look. And yet, only a few people really know the historical role they've played in Japanese society and what they really do. The world of the Geisha is still shrouded in misconceptions to this day.
In this podcast, we open up that secret world and explore the lives and times of the Geishas - from their humble beginnings to the present day. When did Geisha first appear? How did Geisha look? How did Japanese girls become geisha? What is Geisha today?
#Geisha #Japan #Culture
11/30/2020 ā¢ 8 minutes, 13 seconds
Is Andy Warhol Worth the Hype?
From iconic illustrations to prominent prints, Andy Warhol made a lasting impact on the world of art. But the talent and influence of this legendary icon extends beyond the art, to the catwalks of fashion. In this video, we pull back the curtain and give a quick history of Andy Warholās life and how his pop art changed the way we dress.
#AndyWarhol #Art #Fashion #CuriousMuse
11/16/2020 ā¢ 8 minutes, 31 seconds
Ballet Guide by Curious Muse
Ballet is one of the most exquisite forms of high art in existence. Watching it for the first time can be a bit... overwhelming. And while you know that itās impressive, for sure, you arenāt quite sure why. But the truth is that you don't need to be an expert to enjoy it and you can make your first experience watching the ballet nothing short of a stellar one.
Here is your 5-step guide to help you get the most out of a ballet performance and get hooked for life.
9/11/2020 ā¢ 12 minutes, 40 seconds
Futurism in 9 Minutes: How to Rewrite Culture
āThe caffeine of Europe,ā as he liked to call himself, Filippo Tommaso Marinetti was the godfather of Futurism, Italy's most coherent artistic movement of the 20th century. In this video, you'll learn why Futurism attacked traditions, promoted "the beautiful ideas which kill" and claimed that beauty exists only in struggle.
7/19/2020 ā¢ 8 minutes, 28 seconds
Inside New York City 100 Years ago
The Big Apple. The metropolis. The City that never sleeps. Nowhere else on earth quite captures the imagination quite as much as New York. It has shaped our culture, inspired our songs, films, fashion and cuisine. You can love it, you can hate itā¦ most people have a healthy mix of both. But whatever you feel. you just canāt ignore it.
But have you ever wonderedā¦ what was New York like 100 years ago?