A Brief History of Representing the Body in Western Painting

A Brief History of Representing the Body in Western Painting explores how artists across centuries have depicted the human form — from idealized perfection in ancient Greece to expressive realism in the modern era.

Presented by Dr. Steven Zucker and Dr. Beth Harris, this insightful overview traces the evolution of artistic styles, cultural values, and philosophical ideas that have shaped the way the body has been understood and portrayed in Western art.

Created by Beth Harris and Steven Zucker, this video offers a thoughtful look at how representations of the body reflect shifts in religion, science, and society — revealing the deep connection between art and the human experience.