There are a number of free wonderful podcasts available on the internet which cover topics stretching from specific paintings, periods, artists and more. Below is a curated list of what we consider to be the best art history podcasts.
To be included on this list of the best art history podcasts they need to be:
- Free (e.g. no subscription fees, etc)
- Widely available (e.g. not exclusive to a particular podcast player)
- Current (e.g. are still producing new episodes regularly)
The Lonely Palette
The Lonely Palette is a podcast that explores the world of art through the lens of art historian and host, Tamar Avishai. In each episode, Tamar takes a deep dive into a specific work of art, usually from the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, examining its history, context, and impact, and she brings it to life through vivid storytelling and engaging conversations with experts in the field.
- URL: thelonelypalette.com
- Host: Tamar Avishai
- Age: Since 2016
- Frequency: Approximately three episodes per month
- Length: Approximately 30 minutes per episode
- iTunes Rating: 4.9 stars
The podcast is considered one of the best art history podcasts and covers a wide range of art, from ancient to contemporary, and from painting to sculpture to architecture. Tamar approaches each work of art with a sense of curiosity and wonder, and she invites listeners to see the world in a new way. Her passion for art is infectious, and her ability to make complex ideas accessible is a real strength of the show.
One of the great things about The Lonely Palette is its commitment to making art accessible to everyone. Tamar’s approach is always inclusive, and she encourages listeners to engage with the art in their own way, regardless of their prior knowledge or experience. Her passion for art is inspiring, and her willingness to share it with others is truly refreshing.
Art History Babes
The Art History Babes podcast is a lighthearted and entertaining exploration of art and culture, hosted by a group of friends who share a passion for art history. In each episode, the hosts dive into a specific work of art or cultural phenomenon, discussing its history, context, and significance, and bringing it to life with humor and enthusiasm.
- URL: arthistorybabes.com
- Hosts: Corrie, Ginny, Natalie & Jen
- Age: Since 2016
- Frequency: Six episodes per year
- Length: Approximately 60 minutes per episode
- iTunes Rating: 4.4 stars
One of the great things about the Art History Babes podcast is its approach to art history. The hosts are experts in their field, but they bring a fresh, fun, and accessible perspective to the subject. They are not afraid to ask questions, challenge assumptions, or inject humor into the discussion, and their enthusiasm for art is contagious.
The podcast covers a wide range of art and culture, from ancient to contemporary, and from painting to sculpture to architecture. The hosts are always exploring new and exciting topics, and their conversations are always engaging and informative. Whether you’re an art history buff or just starting to explore the world of art, this podcast is sure to leave you inspired and entertained.
Great Women Artists Podcast
The Great Women Artists Podcast is a series dedicated to exploring the lives and works of women artists throughout history. Hosted by Katy Hessel, an art historian, and writer, each episode focuses on a specific artist, examining their contributions to the art world and the challenges they faced as women working in a male-dominated field.
- URL: www.thegreatwomenartists.com/katy-hessel-podcast
- Host: Katy Hessel
- Age: Since 2019
- Frequency: Approximately three episodes per month
- Length: Approximately 45 minutes
- iTunes Rating: 4.8 stars
One of the great things about the Great Women Artists Podcast is its mission to bring attention to the many talented women artists who have been overlooked throughout history. Katy’s passion for this subject is evident in every episode, and her commitment to promoting the works of these artists is truly inspiring.
The podcast covers a wide range of artists, from well-known figures like Frida Kahlo and Georgia O’Keeffe, to lesser-known but equally talented artists like Barbara Hepworth and Marlene Dumas. Katy’s discussions are always engaging and informative, and she brings each artist and their work to life through vivid storytelling and expert insights.
The Week In Art Podcast
The Week In Art podcast by The Art Newspaper is a weekly show that offers a comprehensive and in-depth look at the world of art. The podcast is hosted by a team of knowledgeable and experienced art experts who provide insightful commentary and analysis on the latest art news, exhibitions, and trends.
- URL: theartnewspaper.com
- Host: Ben Luke
- Age: Since 2017
- Frequency: Weekly
- Length: Between 40 minutes and one hour
- iTunes Rating: 4.6 stars
What sets The Week In Art apart from other art podcasts is the level of expertise and the wealth of knowledge that the hosts bring to the table. They are able to provide in-depth analysis and provide historical context to the latest developments in the art world. The hosts also have a great sense of humor and a genuine passion for their subject, which makes the show both informative and entertaining.
In addition to its informative content, The Week In Art also features interviews with leading art professionals, including curators, collectors, and artists. These interviews provide listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at the art world and offer valuable insights into the creative process and the motivations behind the work of some of the world’s leading artists.
One of the strengths of The Week In Art podcast is its accessibility. The show is designed to be both informative and engaging for listeners, regardless of their level of art knowledge. The hosts are able to present complex subjects in a way that is easy to understand, making the show a great resource for anyone interested in the art world.
ArtCurious
The ArtCurious podcast is a bi-weekly show that explores the unusual, the unknown, and the just plain weird stories from the world of art. Hosted by art historian, Jennifer Dasal, the show takes a unique and entertaining look at the history of art, delving into the lives of artists, the motivations behind their work, and the fascinating stories behind some of the world’s most famous and intriguing works of art.
- URL: artcuriouspodcast.com
- Hosts: Jennifer Dasal
- Age: Since 2016
- Frequency: Approximately one episode per week
- Length: Varies – 45 minutes for interviews and features, 20 minutes for news and topical episodes
- iTunes Rating: 4.9 stars
Each episode of ArtCurious focuses on a specific work of art, artist, or event in the art world, and provides listeners with a detailed look at the history and significance of the subject. Jennifer Dasal, who has a background in art history, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the show, and her discussions are both informative and engaging. She has a great sense of humor and a genuine passion for her subject, which makes the show both educational and entertaining.
What sets ArtCurious apart from other art podcasts is its focus on the unusual and the little-known stories from the art world. The show explores topics that are often overlooked in other art podcasts, such as the bizarre and strange stories behind famous works of art, the motivations of eccentric artists, and the history of art-related hoaxes. These stories are not only fascinating, but they also provide listeners with a unique perspective on the art world.
In addition to its informative content, ArtCurious also features interviews with experts in various fields, including art historians, conservators, and curators. These interviews provide listeners with a deeper understanding of the subjects covered in the show and offer valuable insights into the world of art.