Curator Rhinold Ponder discusses works by Wendell T. Brooks, part of Lewis Tanner Moore’s collection of Black artists
State of the Arts has an extensive archive, with documentary videos reaching back into the 1980s! This is a treasure trove for educators heading to the classroom this fall. Back in my days as a student, long before I worked with the show, I actually first encountered State of the Arts during a class lecture—later, I wound up using our videos in my own art history and photography classes! Head into the archives with us today for a glimpse at the materials we have available.
Tolerance by Tallur L.N. at Grounds for Sculpture
“I can have a conversation with a 10th century sculptor… What you are doing is you are adding more and understanding it more.”
– Artist Tallur L.N.
The award-winning PBS series State of the Arts focuses on New Jersey’s vibrant art and culture scene, from literature and visual art to music and theater—and much more. Our features bring in elements of history, science, and social commentary. Being able to hear directly from an artist about their process and motivation is a precious thing, and can help guide your students on their own artistic journeys.
Ceramics by Toshiko Takaezu
“There is always such a thing as timing. And if you allow yourself to work on timing, you really get it. I know when to change—something tells me you should go away and study. And something tells you, you know, it’s a good thing to teach.”
– Toshiko Takaezu in Portrait of an Artist
State of the Arts has also produced many documentary films, most recently in co-productions with PCK Media. Yes, that means full length programs, featured on PBS stations nationwide. Some are focused on particular artists, like composer Jerry Herman, artist Ben Shahn, and ceramicist Toshiko Takaezu, while others cover topics such as the artists of the Harlem Renaissance or a performance of Beethoven’s Ode to Joy.
The Poseidon Project, choreographed by Lynn Needle and performed by the Art of Motion Dance Theatre
“New Jersey has a greater risk of sea level rise than most other places on the planet. I think art encourages us to be thoughtful and reflect upon our experience of the world.”
– Shawn M. LaTourette, Commissioner at the NJDEP
We also share monthly articles, highlighting selections from our archives and looking ahead at new episodes. “Art Urging Us to Appreciate New Jersey’s Nature,” for instance, shows how New Jerseyans are connecting art, poetry, and the environment. “From Gulag to Glasnost” offers a quick art history lesson, discussing artists Komar and Melamid and our 1996 documentary about dissident art in the Soviet Union. For some photo history, “Roy Stryker and Standard Oil” highlights another deep dive from our archive.
We also have articles on poetry, theater, performing arts, fine art, and more. Use the search feature on our website to find something inspiring! Blogs are published on our website monthly, shared on our social media, and also sent out via newsletter.
Photo of Steve Siegel by Phil Buehler
“As you understand the history, it’s almost like you’re going in to rescue something.”
– Phil Buehler on documenting Ellis Island
State of the Arts airs weekly on your local PBS station, but our extensive and growing archives are always available on our website and our Youtube channel. On our website, you can sort the videos by type, from Dance to Theater to Words and more, or search by topic (try “painting” or another keyword!).
Our archives are an invaluable resource for educators. Connecting the arts to New Jersey’s communities—spaces that your students know well—is a truly special way to engage and inspire your students. Thank you to the educators who have used our archives and reached out to us over the years, and to the students who watch our videos, be it for homework or for fun. Please keep your comments coming—and welcome back to school!
Mae Kellert
Communications Producer, State of the Arts
