What is Metrópolis?

Metrópolis - Cabecera de Metrópolis

Metrópolis is a weekly programme on contemporary art and culture that has been broadcast on the 2nd Channel of TVE (Televisión Española - Spanish Public Television) over the past 37 years.

Since the programme went on air on the 21st of April 1985, almost 1500 chapters have been produced. The original format -25’/weekly/non-moderated/monothematic-, though altered at certain times, has prevailed and can be considered responsible for its cult status and its widespread use in art education.

Although launched as a showcase for emerging artists from all fields, over the years visual and audiovisual arts have become Metrópolis’ main focus.

Artists’ features have been produced on Nam June Paik, Bill Viola, Jenny Holzer, Vito Acconci, Marina Abramovic, Stelarc, Tony Oursler, Pipilotti Rist, William Kentridge, Francis Alÿs, Björn Melhus, Candice Breitz or Shirin Neshat, to name a few.

Other artists have been brought together in programmes because of working in the same genre, on the same subject or in the same geographical context.

Events that have been regularly featured include art biennials (Venice, La Habana, Istanbul, Shanghai, Lyon, Berlin, Marrakech, Dakar) and festivals (Ars Electronica, Sonar, Proyector, steiricher herbst, Documentamadrid, Intramurs).