Founded in 1997, Art21 is a nonprofit organization that produces documentary films about contemporary artists from across the globe. It produces three film series: "Art in the Twenty-First Century" on PBS, "New York Close Up," and "Extended Play." The main office is located in New York City. All Art21 films are available to stream for free online. [1]
As stated in the company's website, the mission of Art21 is "to educate and expand access to contemporary art through the production of documentary films, resources, and public programs." [2]
Art in the 21st Century is a PBS series about contemporary artists that premiered in 2001. Premiering a new season every two years, Art in the Twenty-First Century is the only series on United States television to focus exclusively on contemporary visual art and artists. "For making 'art' more knowable and familiar, yet more individualized, more distinctive, and more personal," [3] Art21's Art in the Twenty-First Century received a Peabody Award in 2007.
New York Close Up is a digital series that “focuses on artists in the first decade of their professional careers, discussing their work and lives in New York City.” [4]
Extended Play is a digital series that follows artists in their careers. [5]
Art21 provides free materials and programs to educators and students. [6] Programs include Art21 Educators, a year-long intensive professional development program, [7] and free teacher workshops offered throughout the year. [8]
Each season is separated into episodes by themes. Each theme showcases artists that fit into that niche in some fashion.
Season one (2001):
Season two (2003):
Season three (2005):
Season four (2007):
Season five (2009):
Season six (2012):
Season seven (2014):
Season eight (2016):
Season nine (2018):
Season ten (2020):
Season eleven (2023):