As an art teacher, one of the most exciting parts of the job is introducing students to new forms of art. Surrealism is an art movement that emerged in the 1920s, characterized by dreamlike scenes, unexpected juxtapositions, and a rejection of traditional artistic techniques. Teaching students about surrealism can be a fun and engaging way to broaden their perspectives on what art can be.
The first step in teaching surrealism is to provide some historical context. The Surrealist movement emerged as a response to the aftermath of World War I, which left many artists feeling disillusioned and disenchanted with traditional artistic styles. Surrealists sought to create art that reflected the subconscious mind, with its fantastical imagery and illogical associations. Key figures in the Surrealist movement include Salvador Dali, René Magritte, and Max Ernst.
Once students have a basic understanding of the history and ideology behind surrealism, it’s time to dive into some visual examples. There are countless surrealistic works to choose from, ranging from Dali’s melting clocks to Magritte’s floating bowler hats. Some other notable examples include Ernst’s collages, Meret Oppenheim’s fur-covered teacup, and Remedios Varo’s mystical landscapes.
When studying these works with students, encourage them to look beyond the surface-level imagery and think about the symbolism and underlying messages. What do the elements in the artwork represent? How do they interact with one another? What emotions or ideas are the artists trying to convey?
Another fun activity is to invite students to create their own surrealistic works. Provide them with a selection of images and encourage them to cut and paste them together in unexpected ways. You might also have them combine unrelated objects, such as a bird and a bicycle, or a teapot and a tree. Encourage them to be as imaginative and whimsical as possible, and don’t worry too much about whether the final product “makes sense” in a traditional sense.
