ArtsWhy this Robert Burns poem is a 'masterpiece'On Burns Night this week – and 235 years after Tam O'Shanter was published – Scots everywhere may well be treated to a masterwork with a unique appeal.The story behind cinema's greatest ever final shotCharlie Chaplin's silent comedy, City Lights, is often cited as one of the greatest films ever made – and its final moments are key to its reputation.Inside Italy's forgotten art townSicily's forgotten town of Gibellina was envisioned as an art utopia. Four decades later, it's painting a new future as Italy's first Capital of Contemporary Art.FeatureA rare interview with the elusive Agatha ChristieHer murder mysteries have captivated audiences for more than a century, but, 50 years after her death, she remains an enigma. A BBC profile from 1955 reveals some of her secrets.See more Arts in MotionIn a pioneering new collaboration, the BBC – in partnership with Rolex – celebrates excellence in arts and culture. See moreAround the worldThe dark side of the US's most divisive painterBeloved by many, despised by others, Thomas Kinkade's quaint rustic scenes and his wholesome image belied a tortured story that contrasts with his "sugary" artworks.Seven of the greatest rivalries in art historyThere is an art to rivalry. Mastering its rules has, since ancient times, shaped cultural history over millennia.Eight paint colours that can transform your homeAs Pantone announces its colour of 2026, here's more on the reasoning behind the choice – and what other trending shades can help you achieve greater domestic bliss.Art historyThe ancient monuments saluting the winter solsticeDozens of mysterious structures across the Northern Hemisphere – some nearly 5,000 years old – align precisely to frame the rising and setting Sun on midwinter's shortest day.The 'It Girl' style wars of Renaissance ItalyThe centuries-old origins of the witch's hatHow a Klimt became the most expensive modern artwork What ancient women really thought about sexWatchA cheat's guide to... ImpressionismEverything you need to know about Impressionism but were too afraid to ask.See moreClassical musicThe music that keeps animals calmYou can find many different playlists for dogs and cats online. However, not all styles of music are effective.How the Psycho music score changed film foreverAlfred Hitchcock's grisly horror might not have become a classic without composer Bernard Herrmann's disturbing score.Does Notre-Dame still sound the same?Performers and visitors to the famous gothic cathedral in the midst of the River Seine may find some subtle differences to the way sound bounces around its walls.How music saved a cellist's life in AuschwitzAfter being sent to the Nazi death camp in 1943, Anita Lasker survived by playing in its women's orchestra. In 1996, she spoke to the BBC about her ordeal.The most misunderstood Oscar winner everMiloš Forman's best picture-winning Amadeus is often accused of historical inaccuracies – but the film's critics could be missing the point.A look back at operatic legend Maria Callas' lifeGreek-American soprano Maria Callas, hailed as one of the greatest singers in operatic history, remains an icon for young performers today.More stories8 hrs agoAll you need to know about Hull Colliderfest 2026Sir Christopher Dean and Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock are among those appearing at the festival. 8 hrs ago15 hrs agoLiverpool to host Chinese art exhibitionThe exhibition of Chinese art will be displayed at the National Museums Liverpool in October.15 hrs ago16 hrs agoArt After Dark brings disco lights to West EndPiccadilly Circus will become home to a 7m-tall tower of stacked disco lightboxes.16 hrs ago16 hrs agoCan street art help boost city centre footfall?A business group launches a new art trail and guided tours celebrating Peterborough's murals. 16 hrs ago1 day agoThe show goes on for neurodivergent theatre groupThe All Stars Theatre Company is also appealing for help after losing some technical support.1 day ago2 days ago'Brutally honest' artworks explore depression'Art Heals' is on display in Corsham until the end of February.2 days ago2 days agoImmerse yourself in Van Gogh's workWorld-first exhibition launched as Van Gogh's work comes alive at Winchester Science Centre.2 days ago2 days agoDancers praised for reaching World Cup finalsSome 27 pupils from a dance school in Northamptonshire will perform across 31 categories in Dublin.2 days ago2 days agoCity market to become a contemporary art hub Hull's Trinity Market will team up with Feral Art School for a year to stage art installations.2 days ago...
