What's the point of making realistic paintings when photography can do the trick? We look at the history of artists recreating the world as we see it and ponder why it's still happening

Artists and writers in the 19th century shift their work to a new art style, realism.

A history of abstract art and the lead up to art becoming abstract and why it still feels shocking and confuses people to this day.

Vincent Van Gogh's brother Theo pays him a visit and encourages him to rediscover his spark to overcome his depression. He calls Vincent an idler, but Vincent is quick to discern himself from a man who chooses to be idle. Rather, he indicates that he would love to work but cannot because of his current situation.

Mexican surrealist artist Frida Kahlo celebrates her 25th year wedding anniversary with her husband Diego Rivera two weeks early because she acknowledges her looming death. The end of the scene captures her exit from life in the way most fitting to her: surreal.