Secret Knowledge

Jools Holland tells the story of his father-in-law Rory McEwen - aristocrat, artist, folk singer and pioneering TV presenter, and the man who brought the blues to Britain.

Professor Nandini Das reveals the story behind the Cabinet of Curiosities - the original collecting craze that began in Renaissance Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Lauren Child explores the history of dolls' houses, speaks to craftspeople who create perfect miniatures and meets collectors willing to pay big money for tiny objects of desire.

Natalie Haynes takes a journey into ancient beauty and modern glamour, examining how our obsession with the body beautiful goes back to an era of stunning artistic achievement.

In a personal tribute, British soul singer Laura Mvula travels to New York to celebrate the Nina Simone songs that mean most to her and explore their musical roots.

Michael Symmons Roberts explores the mythic afterlife of the 18th-century poet Thomas Chatterton, whose early death was immortalised by poets, painters and photographers.

Sir Roger Penrose takes a personal journey through artist MC Escher's work, marvelling at his intuitive brilliance and the light it still sheds on complex mathematical concepts.