Austrian art is a rich and diverse aspect of culture that should not be overlooked in the classroom. By introducing students to Austrian art, they can discover the creativity, symbolism, and history that this country has to offer.
There are many ways to teach students about Austrian art. One way is to start with the most significant Austrian artist of the 20th century, Gustav Klimt. Students can learn about his use of gold, patterning, and symbolism in his paintings. Some of his most famous works include “The Kiss” and “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I.”
Another important artist to acquaint students with is Egon Schiele, who mastered expressionism and figurative representation in his work. To help students connect with his art, teachers could show them Schiele’s famous painting “Portrait of Wally,” which was stolen by the Nazis during World War II.
Another activity for teaching about Austrian art is researching the Wiener Werkstätte (Vienna Workshop), a group of designers and artists in Vienna who aimed to unite craftsmanship and artistry in their work. The Wiener Werkstätte had a significant impact on modern design and decoration.
Additionally, music and dance can be a fantastic way to introduce students to the Austrian culture. The famous waltz is of Austrian origin, and there are many opportunities to teach students about the composers Johann Strauss II and Franz Schubert, along with the traditional dance that goes with their music.
In conclusion, students should have the opportunity to appreciate Austrian art and culture in schools. Incorporating a range of Austrian art forms from painting, design, music, and dance will provide a rich resource for promoting cultural understanding, creativity, and exploration. It is important for educators to invest resources and time in introducing their students to various cultures, expanding their horizons, and enhancing the learning experience.
