This unit is intended for use in an OAC Visual Art class. The unit involves the production of works of art as well as the study of art history and art criticism. The focus is on 20th Century art and progresses towards an understanding of contemporary conceptual art. So while technical ability remains important, the thought process involved in creating a work of art and the meaning behind it are the emphasis of this unit. By the time students reach the OAC level in Art, technical training has been a large part of their art education, but they have not necessarily had much instruction in the concepts of art.
Teenagers often feel very strongly about many issues.
In this unit, they are given the opportunity to express their views through art, at the same time learning that ideas, and not just ability, are what art is all about. The unit culminates in a final project where the students are given three options. Drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture are all parts of this unit. Almost all of the information for this unit is found in the SchoolNet Digital collections, as well as links from these collections. The collections are used as a classroom resource and the World Wide Web as a research tool for the students.