Greek Art

This two-part Armchair Art Share series explores the full sweep of ancient Greek art, tracing its evolution across five major periods that shaped Western visual culture. Hosted by Andrew, the series moves from the earliest abstract designs to the emotional and theatrical masterpieces that continue to influence art today.

Part 1 focuses on the foundations of Greek art, beginning with the Geometric Period (c. 900–700 BCE) and its emphasis on pattern, order, and symbolic storytelling. It then examines the Orientalizing Period (c. 700–600 BCE), when increased trade introduced new motifs, myths, and narrative complexity, before arriving at the Archaic Period (c. 600–480 BCE)—a turning point marked by growing naturalism in sculpture, architecture, and vase painting.

Part 2 continues the journey into the height and transformation of Greek artistic achievement. The Classical Period (c. 480–323 BCE) showcases ideals of balance, proportion, and harmony through works such as the Kritios Boy, Doryphoros, and the Parthenon. The series concludes with the Hellenistic Period (323–31 BCE), where artists embraced movement, emotion, realism, and individual experience in masterpieces like the Nike of Samothrace, Laocoön and His Sons, and the Pergamon Altar.

Together, these episodes reveal how Greek artists continually redefined beauty, storytelling, and the human form—laying the foundations for Roman art and centuries of Western artistic tradition. Whether you’re a student, educator, or lifelong learner, this series offers a clear and engaging introduction to one of the most influential artistic traditions in history.