CNN launches the ‘icon’ art series

CNN International has launched 'icon', a new monthly arts series depicting the world of visual arts, architecture, literature, music, photography, dance, opera, fashion and design.

The series will also showcase interviews with innovators and influencers as diverse as IM Pei, Quincy Jones and Herbie Hancock.

Mike McCarthy, vice president of coverage and feature programming at CNN International, said, '' icon throws open the doors to the world of arts and culture around the globe through a mix of rare access and top-name interviews with the vibrant stars of today's creative industries.''

The programme debuting today will feature an exclusive interview with IM Pei, the 93-year-old Pritzker prize winning architect behind the Pyramids, one of Paris' most notable landmarks and a pinnacle of architectural innovation.

The first edition of the show will also cover the unveiling of the newly restored Venus De Milo at the Louvre.

The presenter Monita Rajpal, will also join members of the Royal House of Saud, including Prince Sultan Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, the president of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities, for the inaugural unveiling of The Road to Arabia, a 40-year research and archaeological project which is the Louvre's latest exhibition.