ArtsModernism and Islamic motifs: How Indian artists envisioned Christ's birthOver the centuries, painters in India have depicted Jesus's birth from a uniquely local perspective.The art funfair that lay forgotten for decadesCarnival attractions created by artists Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat and David Hockney are now on display in New York.6 days agoCultureArtists imagine a new utopia for Kenya's capitalCreatives in Nairobi unleash their imaginations in an effort to inspire a new future for the city.30 Nov 2024Africa Arts in MotionIn a pioneering new collaboration, the BBC – in partnership with Rolex – celebrates excellence in arts and culture. See morePerforming artsHow a 1990s Swan Lake changed dance foreverCelebrating the 30th anniversary of his legendary stage production, Matthew Bourne tells the BBC about the show that radically changed ballet with one "big idea".See moreWatchHow the surreal 'Dali Atomicus' was capturedIn 1948 a famous artist and an innovative portrait photographer attempted to create something unbelievable.See moreEditor's picksThe hidden meanings in a 16th-Century nude sketchHow a rarely-seen drawing of the Three Graces by Raphael reveals the era's ideas about nudity, modesty, shame – and the artist's genius.20 Nov 2024CultureThis iconic English painting is not what it seemsJohn Constable's The Hay Wain presents a bucolic view of England – but there's a dark side to the idealised rural image.10 May 2024CultureWhy urban sketching retreats are taking offMany travellers snap pictures during their trips, but others find that slowing down to illustrate a place helps them appreciate it in a more meaningful way.21 Nov 2024TravelArt in ColoursThe rare blue the Maya inventedThe colour survives in the work of 17th Century Spanish colonial painters, a symbol of the wealth that ultimately doomed the Maya, writes Devon Van Houten Maldonado.The colour that means life and death23 Jul 2018CultureThe shady past of the colour pink19 Apr 2018CultureThe colour that comes from volcanoes27 Feb 2018CultureThe painting that revolutionised colour15 Feb 2018CultureThe insect that painted Europe red2 Feb 2018CultureTake me to the operaThe legendary soprano making a differenceDame Kiri Te Kanawa has enjoyed one of the longest careers in operatic history.See moreClassical musicThe most misunderstood Oscar winner everReleased 40 years ago this month, Miloš Forman's best picture-winning Amadeus is often accused of historical inaccuracies – but the film's critics could be missing the point.28 Sep 2024CultureMysterious musical instrument disappearancesFrom a 17th-Century Italian violin stolen from Japan to Drake's lost Blackberry in Mexico, here are musical lost and found mysteries that rival Sir Paul McCartney's.19 Feb 2024CultureHow opera is aiming for net zeroMany opera companies are working towards full sustainability, and Glyndebourne is among those aiming to be a force for good, according to a new documentary.7 Aug 2023CultureHow opera can be 'open to everyone'Is the world of opera becoming more inclusive? A new documentary, featuring conductor Antonio Pappano, explores the mission to open up the art form to everyone.31 Jul 2023CultureThe nation that is the 'land of song'Opera star Bryn Terfel emerged from an extraordinary cultural heritage and a nation renowned for its love of singing. "It's the air that we breathe," he explains in a new documentary.8 Jun 2023CultureGen Z's latest surprising obsessionA radical new wave of artists are sweeping the previously elite world of classical music – with a little help from fashion. Daisy Woodward explores how classical got cool.14 Jan 2023CultureMore stories18 hrs agoCat artist Louis Wain's links to seaside town The eccentric artist walked his cats along the promenade at Westgate from 1894 to 1916.18 hrs agoKent2 days agoFamily travel 260 miles to watch 'best panto'The Bithrey family have travelled from Bedfordshire to Stoke-on-Trent's panto for 18 years. 2 days agoEngland2 days agoSchool fundraises for New York dance opportunityLawn Manor Academy pupils are to represent the UK in a performance in New York in July.2 days agoWiltshire2 days agoPeople here are lovely, helpful and delightful, says Aussie panto starShane Jenek, aka Courtney Act, says he will bring "Aussie charm" to his Yorkshire panto role.2 days agoBradford3 days agoThe show must go on - despite theatre closure The Musselburgh theatre was closed suddenly in 2023 when unsafe Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete was discovered.3 days agoScotland3 days agoArtists sought for town centre mural trailMurals will be painted on street furniture, to make walking and cycling routes more appealing.3 days agoShropshire3 days agoChildren take the lead in Christmas playThe work in Exeter is an immersive experience, where families can walk around and create characters.3 days agoFamily & Education4 days agoBringing CS Lewis's magic to the heart of east BelfastThe play will be performed in a church just a few miles from where the Narnia author grew up.4 days agoNorthern Ireland4 days agoIs this the tallest panto dame of them all? 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