The program explores the life and works of the painter Edgar Degas, most famous for his modern and realistic depiction of the human form.
By looking at his artistic development Tim Marlow shows that although Degas was a central figure amongst the Impressionists, he differed stylistically from the other members of the group, refusing for instance to paint outdoors. The program also explores Degas' life-long study of movement, through his paintings of horses and more famously ballet dancers.