In this alternative history of the British Isles, working artists explore an era once known as the 'dark’ ages, finding mysterious art that haunts our landscapes and imagination.
From the chaos of the Black Death comes creative renewal - survivors finding their voice through satire and a revived literature in English, including breakthrough works by women.
During the reign of Elizabeth I, Protestants and Catholics use art, language and new technology to wage a battle for power in the Isles, creating surprising and often radical works.
A splintering of politics and religion in the British Isles under the Stuart kings leads to more questioning art, new science and architecture.
In the 18th century, trade and conquest funds an explosion of creativity, and art stirs a growing social conscience.
With the industrial revolution transforming the British Isles, cities and country are divided and artists respond to the upheaval to lives and the landscape.
The world wars force artists to grapple with destruction and savagery, challenging conventions and the old imperial order, while those fleeing war bring new ideas to Britain.
In the final episode of the series, an explosion of new voices from across the British Isles reinvents the arts, creating a richer, more diverse culture
