Critical and Contextual Studies: Contemporary Art, Craft and Design

Critical and Contextual Studies: Contemporary Art, Craft and Design

Understanding Contemporary Art, Craft and Design

  • Grasp the dynamic nature of contemporary art, craft and design, acknowledging its constant evolution with time and culture.
  • Delve into the contextual factors that shape contemporary creations such as social media, globalisation, and advances in technology.
  • Acknowledge contemporary art’s capacity to challenge conventional boundaries, question societal norms, or represent personal reflections.

Prominent Contemporary Movements

  • Gain familiarity with noteworthy contemporary movements and styles, such as Conceptual Art, Street Art, Digital Art, or Installation Art.
  • Understand the origins, key characteristics, and aims of these movements.
  • Appreciate how contemporary movements may build upon, depart from, or react against previous artistic periods.

Key Contemporary Artists and Designers

  • Identify pioneering artists and designers whose work defines or contributes significantly to contemporary art, craft and design.
  • Examine their notable works, understanding the ideas, techniques, and materials involved.
  • Analyse how these practitioners might be influenced by their contextual surroundings, personal experiences, or current events.

Evaluating Contemporary Works

  • Cultivate the ability to interpret and critique contemporary works, considering their visual language, symbolism, or intended messages.
  • Recognise how these works may express social commentary, personal sentiments, or offer innovative uses of materials and techniques.
  • Understand how to relate these works to their relevant contextual influences and the larger cultural dialogues they engage with.

Applying Contemporary Insights to Own Practice

  • Reflect on how understanding contemporary art can inform and inspire one’s own creative process.
  • Consider how one might adopt, adapt, or react against contemporary styles, techniques, or conceptual approaches.
  • Engage with contemporary art not just as a viewer, but also as an active participant, utilising your knowledge to create thoughtful and meaningful works.