DESCRIPTION: Students learn about the diverse nature of maodern art--the many functions and roles that is has.

OBJECTIVES: Through the use of description and analysis, this activity helps illuminate the various interpretations one can make about the meaning of modern and contemporary art.

PROCEDURE: We are going to explore the functions that art can serve. I want everyone to raise their hand if they agree with the following statement: Art should be spriritual. (Continue Art should be __________, substituting some of the following words until students suggest that maybe what you should be saying is Art could be any of the words. Words which appear on the "Art Should Be _________" board include:) aesthetic, magical, amusing, moral, artistic, political, commemorative, psychological, cultural, sensitizing, decorative, social, educational, didactic, entertaining, satiric, expressive, spiritual, biographical, and universal.

Now let's get into groups of four. I will give each group aword that I want you to match with a work of art that seems to serve that function. Each group has a different word so do not tell yours to the other groups. When you find a work of art that best exemplifies the function on your card, place the card face down in front of the work. (Give group 5-10 minutes to find work.) Now that each group has made a selection, let's go to the first work selected. Can you identity the function on the card in front of the artwork? (The group that made the selection should refrain from comment at this point except to indicate if the guess is correct. If functions other than that on the card, in front of the work, are suggested, discuss the validity of each. It is importan that you point out that there is not a "correct" answer. The purpose is to have students state their ideas clearly and persuasively. Also as students begin discussion, it is important for you to add information about the art and artists.) Let's go on to the other selections and determine their functions.

MINNESOTA GRADUATION STANDARDS:
(1) Read, View, Listen
(2) Write and Speak
(3) Literature and the Arts

Age level: Grades 9 and up.
Artworks used: Students choose artworks.
Props needed: Art Should Be cards.
Related to Minneapolis Sculpture Garden: Yes
Notes: This activity should be started within the first 20 minutes of the tour.


© 1998 WALKER ART CENTER