11 September 2008 - 4 January 2009
Bacon in the BBC Archives
To an unusual degree our knowledge of Bacon's art has been mediated through his own commentary. Bacon talked extensively about his practice and influences, particularly in interviews with the art critic David Sylvester, who had championed Bacon's work since the 1940s. Bacon's presentation of himself was polished over time, as anecdotes and explanations were refined through repetition.
This selection of clips comes from the rich collection of the BBC Archive, and includes previously unbroadcast material.
Visit the BBC Archive website to find the full length interviews and many more television and radio programmes about Francis Bacon.
Video
New Release Pilot Francis Bacon 1965
In this never-broadcast interview, Francis Bacon talks about contemporary painting practice.
Fragments of a Portrait 1966
Bacon and art critic David Sylvester sift through photographs and reproductions of art works from his studio floor.
Review: Stripped Down to What's Real 1971
Bacon discusses the difficulties of recording people in paint.
Audio
Francis Bacon: Sound Archive 1963
Francis Bacon talks to art critic David Sylvester about the importance of accident in his painting.
A Man Without Illusions 1985
Richard Cork examines the theme of violence in Francis Bacon’s work.
Kaleidoscope: Francis Bacon 1991
In the last interview before his death Francis Bacon talks to Richard Cork about the reception of his paintings in Britain.
Centurions: Francis Bacon: Innocent Scream 1999
A discussion of Bacon’s early paintings and contemporary historical events.
