Themes and Prompts:
The feature artists that we looked at for this class focused on the environment. Some of these artists include Stan Herd and Goldsworthy. They used only nature to create art that is, of course, non-permanent (e.g. art featuring grass and icicles).
Another theme was that was covered in class was how artists interrupt the way we think through juxtaposition. Kruger, Holzer and Bearden were all examples of artists that did this. For example public art that is created outside that is meant to stop you and force you to take notice.
For example: public art by Jenny Holzer who uses text to command attention – powerful stuff !
Challenge:
Our challenge was to apply Romare Bearde’s inspired collage techniques to create some kind of image/scene and to pair it with an interesting question or statement. To carry out this project, we used cardboard and magazines. Two goals for the art were to free our own constraints in the way we think and to play around with juxtaposition. As seen below we came up with “words are worlds”, “listen to your body”, “grow naturally beautiful” and “if I had a million dollars.”
By: Ariella L., Emily K., Tina L. & Sarah T.
Theories and Concepts
We discussed thinking latterly and creatively in the classroom. We were given the broad concept of love and asked to create a concept map. All of the words that came up were stereotypical words (e.g. hugs, joy, chocolates…) This exercise showed us that stereotypes are what comes easiest to us. It is up to us to not just use what’s fastest and easiest, but to push our thoughts and think deeply. Only then can we come up with words like giving, forgiveness etc. This idea lead to our next challenge
Challenge: Banner
For this challenge, we were asked to come up with a thought provoking statement and post it somewhere around the school. Our group came up with the following quote: “Teach students to lead others, not to follow instruction.” We hung our banner in the elevator. We believe the elevator is a place where everyone conforms. We all stand in the same position, facing the same direction.
Challenge: Themes and Questions
For this challenge, we were asked to come up with as many ideas as we could for possible LES themes.
Themes: Guiding Questions:
- Invention If you could create anything what would it be? ( Chosen theme for LES)
- Miniature/over sized How does size effect us?
- food How can we turn food into an artwork?
- Environment How could the environment could inspire art?
- Illustrations What are the different media that could be used to illustrate a book? (e.g. Plasticine…)
- Fairy tales or Superheroes If you could design a superhero or fairy tale character what would he/she look like?
- Emotions How can art be used to express how you are feeling?
- Recycling How could recycled materials be used for art?