Art in the 20th century and beyond explores human expression far deeper than a paintbrush or a camera lens can allow. In this workshop, students are exposed to and asked to analyze art that uses nontraditional media or nontraditional spaces. Some artists seek to change the problems they see in society and create art to do so. For example, Kosuth’s Conceptual chair piece that questions simply what is, or Yoko Ono’s performance piece that explores femininity and desire in public spaces, and even graffiti art of Banksy all target problems of the 20th century. This workshop aims to expand students’ knowledge of contemporary art, deconstruct the myths surrounding this art, and engage students in a new and challenging conversation about art that does not have right or wrong answers.
Learning Objectives:
- Students will learn and recognize new and nontraditional forms of art.
- Students will discuss the importance,relevance, and value of such art in today’s (art) world.
- Students will understand the different reasons for creating Conceptual and Performance based art.
- Students will demonstrate understanding by creating performance pieces in small groups.
Accompanying Activity:
Students will be separated into small groups and asked to create a performance piece that addresses a problem they see in their world, whether locally or an a more global scale. This activity serves to allow students to explore the cathartic protests of artists who use their bodies and other nontraditional media in inciting change.
Age Range:
This workshop is aimed at children grades 7th and older. However, it can be tailored to any age group upon request.
Materials Provided:
- Presentation on PowerPoint
Materials Needed (by teacher/classroom/host organization):
- technology to present the powerpoint
UCSB Art History Education Outreach 