The Masterpiece series began in 1989 as a weekly television spot for arts documentaries from Australia and around the world. Implemented by Andy Lloyd James, then Head of SBS Independent, the series ranged across all art forms, including theatre, dance, film, music, literature, visual arts, and architecture. English subtitling, if necessary, was done by SBS. Andrea Stretton was the original presenter. She also later presented the Masterpiece Specials series, as well as acting as an interviewer for the program.