Integration of Contemporary & Diverse Artists

In my class I strive to expose students to how they can stretch the medium of clay every day.  One of the ways I do this is through a low stakes attendance question where the students are introduces with a new artist whose work in some way reflects the same visual goals, subject matter, or concepts as their current project. Most of the art shown comes from contemporary artists because I feel that high school students can find their work more relatable and applicable to what they are experiencing.  A few works shown are historical but all are from a broad spectrum of backgrounds which show diversity in gender, age, race, socio-economic class, and geographical location. 

As I gauge student responses and react to the conversations I hear in my school community I search for artists that engage with what they are thinking about. When planning a unit I dive into the process and ideas of contemporary artists, drawing inspiration for myself and hoping to facilitate a relationship where students can self-identify with these artists and finding their own voice. Some of the contemporary concepts explored through these artists are; consumerism, environmentalism, cultural difference, identity, and storytelling.

When I introduce an artist, I think it is important students are shown a range of their artwork with what they look like and their own description of their art practice. This way there are many points of entry for students to make a connection to the artist or their work. Perhaps the artist looks like someone they know or their ideas remind them of something that has been on their mind. Students from all backgrounds need to see representation in the content they are learning and by displaying how art is inclusive of all perspectives helps students find their own voices in our community.