Themes:

Society & Politics

Examine specific works of art in relation to the social and political contexts in which they were created. Students are encouraged to reflect on how artists interpret and represent different experiences and events.

José Clemente Orozco. Dive Bomber and Tank. 1940; Pablo Picasso. The Charnel House. 1944–45

Lesson ideas include:
Communities, Conflict, Power and Representation, Identity and Politics

Claes Oldenburg. “Empire” (“Papa”) Ray Gun. 1959

Sample Lesson Activity

Consider how artists represent different power relationships in relation to Claes Oldenberg's "Empire" ("Papa") Ray Gun. Draw your own symbol of power then pass it to a classmate who will add to the drawing to make the symbol less powerful.