LESSON 22

CONTEMPORARY ART PRACTICES AND PRODUCTION

Introduction
Contemporary art has certain practices. According to Michelle Watts, an art educator, these are the
following:

1. Changes to accepted tradition

Contemporary art uses modern approaches to art creation, such as mixed media (using different art
mediums) and goes against personal beliefs and public tastes.
Example: making an artwork composed of Chinese ink, ball pen, and watercolor.

2. Understanding of a multiplicity of viewpoints

Contemporary art is aware of the complexities of history, politics, and economics, and is exposed to the
relationship of people and realities.
Example: making a poster showing acceptance or criticism on a certain event, program, or policy.

3. Stresses on the role of objects in space and the relationships between objects
Contemporary art uses space as part of art practice and works with existing objects to maintain balance and
harmony.
Example: making an installation art on a vacant lot or space to make it attractive.

4. Use of everyday materials

Contemporary art transforms simple objects into beautiful artworks. Recycle art (using discarded
materials in making an artwork) becomes a trend in contemporary arts.
Example: utilizing eggshell in making a sculpture, or plastic bottles in making a living space.

5. Employment of contemporary technology

Contemporary art uses available technology in creating an artwork. Technology revolutionizes the way of
contemporary art production.
Example: the use of digital art through the use of computer; or virtual reality art wherein paintings or
pictures are viewed via special gadgets such as goggles.

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