The Art Deco movement was a significant cultural and artistic influence of the 1920s. It’s no secret that art and design were some of the most defining aspects of the era, and as such, teachers can use Art Deco as an instrument to explore the style and the history of its time period thoroughly.
Here are some ways you can teach your students about the 1920s Art Deco movement:
Start with a Brief Historical Context
Before delving into the art movement itself, teachers should provide some historical context about the era and the cultural movements that were happening at the time. It would be best to do a brief introduction to the aftermath of World War I, which influenced the dramatic shift in art and design. During this era, people were looking for ways to express themselves in a more positive light after years of devastation and destruction experienced during the World War.
Introduce Artists and Designers of the Movement
There were significant artists and designers who influenced the Art Deco movement, and teachers should introduce them to their students. These names include Eugene Grasset, Emile-Jacques Ruhlmann, Tamara de Lempicka, and Erté. They were some of the most influential artists who produced various pieces that showcase the movement’s distinct features.
Explore the Artistic Features of Art Deco
Art Deco is known for its unique geometric shapes and symmetrical designs. The art of the time featured a lot of shiny, metallic materials such as chrome and stainless steel, as well as luxurious fabrics like velvet and silk. It was also characterized by bold hues such as black, gold, and silver, with intricate patterns and motifs.
Engage Them in Hands-On Activities
An excellent way to ensure that your students understand the Art Deco movement thoroughly is by engaging them in hands-on activities. Teachers can have students replicate a famous Art Deco design, such as a piece of jewelry or a wall art piece. This activity will allow them to develop their creativity and understand the techniques and materials used in creating Art Deco pieces.
Take Them on a Virtual Museum Tour
Finally, teachers can take their students on a virtual tour of a museum exhibition featuring Art Deco pieces. This activity will expose them to different Art Deco works of art and enable them to appreciate the beauty of the movement more effectively.
In conclusion, Art Deco was a pivotal movement during the 1920s, and teaching students about it can provide them with a glimpse into the cultural and historical context of that period. Teachers can achieve this by providing historical context, introducing key artists, exploring artistic features, engaging them in hands-on activities, and organizing virtual museum tours. By demonstrating how Art Deco visually represents the Roaring Twenties, students can learn more about art and history in an engaging and exciting way.
