INTRODUCING THE LANGUAGE OF NEW MEDIA TO ART EDUCATION

Abstract

In my work, I am interested in introducing the language of new media to art education in middle and high schools. Transformations of visual narratives, in connection with the language of new media are the main objectives.It is concerned with the various forms of expression which are being created together with technical possibilities brought by new media or the media in general.Since the 1960s, there have been many discussions and changing views about the role of media in artmaking. But at this point, the use of new media is now a commonly accepted artistic practice in contemporary art, just as the social impact of a particular work is considered an inseparable element.Today, it is difficult to find a dividing line between artistic production and educational performance. The differences are disappearing as one discipline blends into the other, enriching each as a result. However, this interdisciplinarity remains more developed outside of the school setting, despite the fact that these same new media are commonly accessible means of communication for every student.I have invited several contemporary Czech artists who work with media or the social space to create “assignments”, lessons for students that will acquaint them with the artist’s individual views on working with media and at the same time break the barrier of the school’s walls.For the purpose of the present conference I will introduce a short video document consisting of my personal artwork, an on-going action research sustained of qualitative research, teaching process and art education project built in cooperation with students, teachers, artists and organization focused on visual communication.My aim is to develop an open space for sharing creativity that overcomes the limits of the institution and stimulates a more active exchange between art and institutionalized education.