Critical Foundations
How can we introduce our students to more contemporary examples of Asian art?
Introduction
When we think of Asian art, we commonly imagine artworks that are traditional, foreign, distant, and stuck in the historical past. Asia has a rich ancient history, but it is not ancient! Engaged and innovative Asian artists and communities around the world continue to make vital, exciting art today. When teaching about Asian art, take some time to look at Mia’s contemporary Asian artworks and explore beyond what Mia’s collection offers. Sharing diverse examples of Asian art with students prevents us from reinforcing the same or stereotypical narratives.
We know that contemporary art can seem difficult to understand (anything unfamiliar or new can be intimidating). But art is simply human stories told visually. In order to demystify and humanize our collection, we will introduce you to Asian artists in Mia’s collection and from our Twin Cities community.
Video: chamindika wanduragala: artist profile
Meet Chamindika Wanduragala, a contemporary Sri Lankan American puppeteer, DJ, visual artist, and stop-motion film maker, who creates art and spaces for Twin Cities Native, Black POC puppeteers. Wanduragala discusses the transformative nature of puppeteering and the expansive nature of the craft. From music and soundscape design to visual production, there are many ways to engage with the art form.
Video Discussion
What do you think are the main messages chaminda wanduragala wants you to take away from her interview?
What are some ways that chamindika wanduragala brings her puppets to life? How does she use a puppet character to illustrate some of her personal experiences?
Video: Trauma from Above
Trauma from Above, a PTSD puppet pho(w), centers the friendship of two Vietnamese-American puppets who fight about pho, labor over love, and heal with karaoke. Set in Mia’s replica of the Grand Salon from the Hôtel de la Bouëxière, the show explores how centuries of colonial trauma and ongoing oppression impact contemporary interpersonal relationships.
Video Discussion
How does Denise Hạnh Huỳnh use puppets, humor, and music in her performance to make commentary on the trauma of colonialism? Provide some examples.
What do think is the significance of staging this performance in a French period room? What commentary do the characters make about the lack of learning about their own history in school?
Why do you think she calls “Trauma from Above” a PTSD puppet pho(w)?
How does Hạnh Huỳnh address the racism that occurs between people within the Asian community?
Teaching and Learning Strategies
If you are teaching with a historical artwork, research contemporary artists working with the same or similar materials and techniques to show how artistic and cultural traditions have stayed the same—or changed and evolved—over time. Use your own subject-area expertise as an educator to connect historical artworks to relevant classroom content or current events and issues.
Connect with established, midcareer, and emerging Asian artists in your own area and invite them into your classroom or find ways to collaborate. Debunk the myth that art is a precious collectible to be kept behind glass in a museum gallery.
Whenever you teach with Asian art, make sure to emphasize that Asia is not monolithic and that Asian communities are contemporary, living, dynamic, innovative cultures.
Branch out beyond visual art and incorporate contemporary Asian music, performance, literature, and other artistic disciplines into your curriculum.