The Backstory Podcast
The Backstory Podcast
The PMA
With an extensive collection and nationally renowned exhibitions, the Portland Museum of Art (PMA) is the cultural heart of Portland, Maine. The PMA boasts significant holdings of American, European, and Contemporary art, as well as iconic works from Maine—highlighting the rich artistic tradition of the state and its artists. The museum brings it all to life with unparalleled programming. From special members-only events, Free School Tours, and a commitment to family activities, to PMA Movies, curator talks, and exclusive tours of the Winslow Homer Studio—it’s all happening at the PMA.
In Conversation At The PMA: Nan Goldin
On October 3, artist Nan Goldin joined collector and friend Michael Zilkha for an intimate conversation about art, Goldin's oeuvre, and the PMA exhibition of her work, on view through December 31, 2017. Moderated by PMA Deputy Director and Robert and Elizabeth Nanovic Chief Curator Jessica May.
Oct 10, 2017
51 min
Worthy of History: Tim Rollins & K.O.S.
Worthy of History: Tim Rollins & K.O.S. by The PMA
Jul 25, 2016
9 min
Changing Place: Photographer Michael Kolster And The Rebirth of the Androscoggin
2015 PMA Biennial artist Michael Kolster has spent the last 4 years photographing rivers around the country, with specific focus on the Androscoggin, which borders studio in Brunswick, Maine. In this episode of The Backstory, Michael draws parallels between his photographic process and the inherent nature of rivers, while connecting the history of industry, pollution, and the birth of the Clean Water Act to the Androscoggin, making a strong environmental case for why these rivers—no longer pristine but still beautiful and vital places—need to be protected for future generations.
Oct 16, 2015
5 min
Rose Marasco: index | Saint Rosalie Feast
In this touching episode of The Backstory, photographer Rose Marasco narrates the moments that brought her to Utica, New York in 1988 to photograph the Saint Rosalie Feast—and how that project affected her life and photographic career.
Apr 28, 2015
6 min
The Coast & the Sea, Chapter 3
Andrew Eschelbacher, Susan Donnell and Harry W. Konkel Assistant Curator of European Art, on how the themes of seaside and leisure play out through The Coast & the Sea.
Apr 15, 2015
1 min
The Coast & the Sea, Chapter 2
Andrew Eschelbacher, Susan Donnell and Harry W. Konkel Assistant Curator of European Art, on how The Coast & the Sea: Marine and Maritime Art in America is a reflection of ourselves and the meaning of the sea.
Apr 14, 2015
1 min
The Coast & the Sea, Chapter 1
Andrew Eschelbacher, Susan Donnell and Harry W. Konkel Assistant Curator of European Art, on how The Coast & the Sea: Marine and Maritime Art in America has something for everyone.
Apr 13, 2015
1 min
The Backstory: The Lens Of History
An investigation into how social and historical theory can influence how we interpret works of art, through an examination of David Roberts' artwork and Edward Said's Orientalism.
Dec 8, 2014
13 min
The Backstory: To Be Fired By The King
In the late 18th century, legendary painter Benjamin West spent 20 years on a painting for King George III—all for naught. Image Credit: Benjamin West (United States, 1738-1820) The Ascension, 1801 Oil on canvas, 49 1/2 x 34 inches The Berger Collection at the Denver Art Museum, TL-17385
Oct 14, 2014
9 min