
PBS Arts
Preview | The Barnes Collection
Follow Dr. Albert Barnes’ rise to the top of the modern art world.
About the Program
The Barnes Collection
was featured in the 2012 PBS Arts Summer Festival.
Premiere Date: August 3, 2012
Follow Dr. Albert Barnes’ remarkable rise from Philadelphia’s working-class neighborhood to the top of the modern art world. This unique tale bounces back and forth through time as the late Dr. Barnes travels the world to collect works of art by some of history’s most famous artists — Picasso, Cezanne, Matisse, Renoir and many others. The film digs deep into the intricacies of each painting, offering a rare look at the priceless collection and the new Philadelphia museum that houses it.
Watch the web exclusive clips above to hear from David Morse, the voice of Dr. Barnes in the film; learn about Barnes' brief ownership of some of Georgia O'Keefe's work; listen to the architects of the new Barnes Foundation building discuss stone and wood; and follow as a Henri Matisse mural is removed, transported, restored and re-installed in a new location.
The Barnes Collection was produced by WHYY, Inc.