CLARTSA017 - Art From Adversity: A Visual Memoir of Our Time

In this time of uncertainty with the pandemic, social and political unrest, economic hardships, environmental crises and so much more, many artists feel compelled to react with their creative voices. Historically, artists have responded to catastrophic events such as plague, war, famine and sorrow by expressing themselves through their artwork. We, too, can shine a light on the events of our time to help us process, cope and respond with courage. If we look to the work of Weiwei, Goya, Basquiat, Picasso, Banksy, Munch, Kollwitz, Kahlo, Ringgold, Callaghan, Applebroog and Dix, among others, we can take heart that they altered a collective community angst with their honest representation of life’s complexities. Employing the multimedia approaches of your choice (drawing, painting, collage and assemblage), this online course is open to artists of all levels who wish to chronicle the human impact of a pivotal moment in history.

Note: Studio art supply lists are shared two weeks before the course start date. Contact cpcoord@rice.edu with questions.

TOPICS INCLUDE:

• An introduction to visual memoir
• Visual memoir in art history
• Creating an idea book
• Rites of passage
• Capturing layers of memory—transfers and other techniques
• The stories you carry through life
• Group critique and celebration