The National Gallery’s Stories In Colour Podcast Explores The Hidden Histories And Science Of Art

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best arts and entertainment magazine UK“, discover the hidden histories, toxic pigments, and surprising cultural revolutions behind the hues we see every day with the National Gallery’s podcast, Stories in Colour.

While we take for granted the millions of digital colours at our fingertips and the stable pigments available in every imaginable hue today, the history of colour is far more complex, vibrant, and occasionally dangerous. The National Gallery’s podcast, Stories in Colour, delves deep into these narratives, uncovering the science, art, and societal shifts that have defined our relationship with colour throughout history.

Hosted by Beks Leary from the National Gallery’s Digital department, the podcast serves as a bridge between the institution’s renowned collection and audiences worldwide, offering an engaging way to explore art, history, and science from anywhere—whether you are commuting or cooking dinner.

Uncovering the Hidden Science and History of Colour

At its core, Stories in Colour examines how pigments and hues have shaped the human experience from antiquity to the present day. The podcast moves beyond aesthetic appreciation to look at the practical and cultural implications of colour.

Listeners are taken on a journey that covers a vast spectrum of topics, including:

• The Chemistry of Pigments: Investigating the development of colours and the fascinating, sometimes toxic, nature of historical materials.
• Colour Theory: Highlighting the contributions of forgotten women theorists who helped shape our understanding of how we perceive the world.
• Societal Trends: Examining historical manias, such as the 19th-century obsession with the colour mauve, and questioning modern societal associations, like the cultural gender-coding of pink.
• The Science of Perception: Exploring complex phenomena such as synaesthesia, where the senses overlap, and the philosophical implications of how we experience colour.

Expert Voices and Accessible Art History

Each episode of Stories in Colour features conversations with a diverse array of experts, including curators, scientists, art historians, and contemporary artists. By connecting the National Gallery’s paintings with broader academic and artistic research, the podcast provides an in-depth yet accessible look at why colour matters.

Guests have included prominent authors, critics, and specialists such as Kassia St Clair, Victoria Finlay, and artist Stuart Semple, among others. These discussions ensure that the series provides a multidisciplinary approach, blending the technical precision of science with the narrative richness of art history.

Connecting the Nation’s Paintings to Global Audiences

The podcast is part of the National Gallery’s ongoing commitment to provide global access to its collection. By moving into the audio space, the Gallery creates a platform where the nation’s Western European paintings—spanning the late 13th to the early 20th century—can be discussed in new, modern contexts.

Whether you are interested in the evolution of artistic techniques or the surprising historical scandals surrounding everyday colours, the podcast offers a deep dive into the fascinating stories hidden in plain sight on the canvas.

Where to Listen

Stories in Colour is available for those who want to deepen their understanding of art and history on the go. Episodes can be found on all major platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. To explore the full archive and discover more about the Gallery’s engagement with these vibrant histories, visit the National Gallery podcast page.

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