Time as a big idea

I think one very interesting way to look at time is through layering, which can be applied to an endless list of ideas. I am specifically thinking of the way the earth creates layers covering artifacts of different time period. The layers of the earth itself is a metaphor of time. Archaeologists study cultures that came before us through the objects that they left behind. I think it would be extremely interesting to develop a lesson or unit around archaeology in the art room. Students could create their own histories through layers, selecting one object from each period of their life representative of who they were and what they were doing.


Also, when I think of time, I reference places... the places where the memories happen. For some, the majority of their memories could have happened in the same 20 mile area, but for others, the moments of their life could be comprised of places from all over the world. It would be interesting to examine time through a type of 3D map with collaged photographs, showing where experiences happen that left a mark on you. I also find this concept interesting because certain places often evoke strong memories and moments in a lifetime.

Protest and Personal is Political

Protest

The idea of protest in art is used to express political opinion, usually in contrast to official propaganda. I did not know that Goya was the first mainstream artist to use propaganda in his work. In The Third of May 1808, Goya criticizes the Spanish government for its failure to protect its people. Artists today are still using protest as a powerful form of communication to the masses. Ai Weiwei talks about social injustice in his work and has had such an influence over the culture that the Chinese government took action against him. This shows the amount of power and impact artists can have over their viewers.

I have never before created a political piece of art and it could be a very strong and compelling way to express myself. Images can often be more powerful than written text and are used widely in political campaigns and other various agendas. I am intrigued by the idea of creating a mixed media piece using materials gathered from news sources. All news comes from a biased perspective and I think a lot of rich contrast could be developed in the comparison of various sources. I am always deeply engaged by the large black and white photos hanging in the entrance to the Journalism school and I think this again speaks to the power a single image can have.

Personal is Political

I knew I had heard of the phrase "personal is political," but am not familiar with its background or context in the world of art. I also did not know that "personal is political" is so closely connected to the feminist movement of the 70s. This idea in art gave minorities and marginalized artists their first opportunities to exhibit and be respected in the art world. I now further understand the meaning and concept behind Judy Chicago's The Dinner Party and the relevance it is in today's society. Many of the female artists mentioned in the text have made strides in giving women the recognition the deserve for achievements throughout history.

As a woman, I would be very interested in creating a series of artwork about women and their strengths. Women have made beautiful achievements throughout history that often go unrecognized. In addition to the accomplishments they have made themselves, I think it is of great importance to recognize the role of a mother in raising and inspiring her children. There is much history yet to be told about women and their contributions to humanity. 

Icon

Before reading Bird's thoughts on icon, I had no idea about the significant origin of the word. How interesting is it that the term icon is derived from the Greek word eikon, meaning "image", particularly referring to  holy figures. Throughout history images have been used to represent ideas, and in this case of the Greeks it was so important that they had a particular term for it. Churches throughout history have used icons to connect its followers to ideas. Images are a powerful form of communication and can give an abstract idea a "face."

I think an interesting way to study icons would be as part of a "representation unit," studying every type of representational image from religious icons to commercial logos. I think by studying the icons and symbols used throughout history, I would be more mindful of the choices I make in creating artwork and the meaning and history behind the visuals I create.