Contextualization

Contemporary art from East Asia is a vibrant and constantly evolving scene that has been making significant contributions to the global art world. This project will focus on East Contemporary Art, particularly from China, Korea, and Japan, exploring the unique cultural contexts, historical influences, and artistic approaches of these three countries.

In this era of globalization, it is essential to understand and appreciate art from diverse cultural perspectives. The art of China, Korea, and Japan, also known as the 'East Asian Triad,' has a rich history that goes back thousands of years, with each country having its distinct style, themes, and techniques.

Key to understanding contemporary art from these three countries is an understanding of how traditional art forms and philosophies have influenced present-day artistic expressions. For example, China's long history of ink painting and calligraphy has shaped the aesthetics and techniques of many contemporary Chinese artists. Japan's Zen Buddhism has influenced the minimalistic and contemplative nature of much of its contemporary art.

It is also crucial to recognize the socio-political contexts that have shaped East Asian contemporary art. For instance, the Cultural Revolution in China and the division of Korea have had profound impacts on the themes and styles of art from these regions.

Importance

Studying East Contemporary Art not only provides a deep cultural understanding of these regions but also offers a fresh perspective on global artistic trends and issues. It challenges the Eurocentric view of art history and expands the notion of what constitutes 'contemporary.'

Moreover, this project will help students develop critical thinking, visual analysis, and communication skills. By examining and discussing various artworks, they will learn to articulate their thoughts, listen to others' perspectives, and form informed opinions. These are invaluable skills for any field, not just art.

Resources

1. Asia Society: Contemporary Art
2. The Museum of Modern Art: Contemporary Art from Asia
3. The Met: Contemporary Art from China, Korea, and Japan
4. Books:
   • "Art in China (Oxford History of Art)" by Craig Clunas
   • "Modern and Contemporary Art in Korea" by Hossein Amirsadeghi and Susan J. Barnes
   • "Japanese Art" by Joan Stanley-Baker

Practical Activity

Activity Title: East Contemporary Art Exhibition

Objective

The objective of this project is to create an East Contemporary Art Exhibition that showcases the unique artistic expressions from China, Korea, and Japan. The exhibition will not only include visual artworks but also interactive installations and performances, providing a holistic and immersive experience of East Asian contemporary art.

Description

Divided into groups of 3 to 5, students will research, curate, and design their own East Contemporary Art Exhibition. Each group will focus on one country - China, Korea, or Japan, and their exhibition should reflect the unique characteristics and influences of the chosen country's contemporary art scene.

Necessary Materials

1. Art supplies for creating own artworks and installations (can include paper, paints, brushes, clay, etc.)
2. Access to internet for research
3. Library access for book resources
4. Access to a space for hosting the exhibition (this can be a classroom, school hallway, or a digital platform for virtual exhibitions)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Research (Approximately 5 hours)

• Each group should start by researching the contemporary art scene of their chosen country. This should include studying the major artists, key artworks, art movements, and cultural and historical influences.
• Use the provided resources as a starting point and expand your research to other credible sources as well.

Step 2: Curate (Approximately 3 hours)

• Based on your research, curate a selection of artworks, installations, and performances that best represent the unique characteristics and influences of your chosen country's contemporary art scene.
• Ensure that your selection includes a variety of mediums, themes, and styles to provide a comprehensive view of the art scene.

Step 3: Create (Approximately 5 hours)

• Create your own artworks and installations that complement and enhance the curated pieces. These can be inspired by the artworks or can be original creations that reflect the same themes and styles.
• Plan for any interactive components or performances that you would like to include and allocate time to rehearse or set up these elements.

Step 4: Design Exhibition Space (Approximately 3 hours)

• Design the layout of your exhibition space, considering how each piece will be displayed, the flow of the exhibition, and any additional elements you would like to include (such as information boards or audio guides).
• If hosting a virtual exhibition, design a website or a digital space that is easy to navigate and provides a similar immersive experience.

Step 5: Setting Up (Approximately 2 hours)

• Set up your exhibition space as planned. Make sure all artworks and installations are securely displayed and interactive components are in working order.
• For virtual exhibitions, make sure all digital elements are functioning correctly.

Step 6: Exhibition (Approximately 2 hours)

• Open the exhibition to the public (this can be your classmates, teachers, parents, or a virtual audience).
• During the exhibition, each group should be prepared to explain their curatorial decisions and discuss their artworks and installations with visitors. This is an opportunity to practice your visual analysis and communication skills.

Step 7: Reflection and Report Writing (Approximately 3 hours)

• After the exhibition, each group should write a report reflecting on the process and the outcomes of the project. This should include an introduction, development, conclusions, and used bibliography.

Project Deliveries and Report Structure

Deliverables

• An East Contemporary Art Exhibition showcasing unique artistic expressions from China, Korea, and Japan.
• A written report detailing the process, outcomes, and reflections on the project.

Report Structure

1. Introduction: Contextualize the importance of studying East Contemporary Art and the objective of the project.
2. Development: Detail the research conducted on the chosen country's contemporary art scene. Explain the curation process, the artworks and installations chosen, and the reasons behind these choices. Discuss the creation of original artworks and installations and the design of the exhibition space. Present the results of the exhibition, including any observations or feedback received.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on the process and the outcomes of the project. Discuss what you have learned about East Contemporary Art and about the process of curating an exhibition. State any conclusions drawn from the project.
4. Bibliography: List all the sources used for research and preparation of the project.

Through this project, students will not only gain a deeper understanding of East Contemporary Art but also develop important skills such as research, curation, teamwork, creative problem-solving, and communication. The outcome will be an engaging and educational East Contemporary Art Exhibition, providing a unique perspective on the art of China, Korea, and Japan.