Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/public-art-pedagogy
The course ‘ART of the MOOC: Public Art and Pedagogy’ offered on Coursera is a profound dive into the eloquent intersection of public art and educational theory, designed by the talented Duke professor, Pedro Lasch, and co-taught by the innovative Creative Time artistic director, Nato Thompson. This unique course allows students to experiment with public art interventions while embracing the rich theoretical frameworks surrounding the practice of public art.
Beginning with an introductory module, the course lays out its structured approach, guiding students through a global community of learners. This careful introduction sets the tone for an engaging and collaborative environment, making it clear that art is not confined to galleries but occupies multifaceted interactions within public spaces.
One of the most enriching sections of the course covers ‘Public Art and Spatial Politics’. The lectures and guest presentations critically examine how public art has had a significant impact on urbanism and social planning. By understanding spatial politics, students learn how art can illuminate the complexities of social structures and mobilize communities towards transformative action.
My favorite aspect of the course is the encouragement of personal expression through projects and self-assessments. Although originally peer-reviewed, students now have the flexibility to self-review their work, freeing them to creatively explore without the pressure of grades. This thoughtful structure fosters a space for experimentation—whether students choose a more individual or social approach.
The modules ‘Fictions, Alternative Structures, and Mock-Institutions’ highlight how socially engaged art can challenge and reshape societal norms by utilizing different organizational frameworks as canvases. This approach invigorates discussions around alternative social structures, making art a catalyst for genuine dialogue and community building.
The section on ‘Experimental Pedagogy’ shifts the focus towards education itself, exploring how artists have attempted to reformulate traditional learning paradigms. The course encourages students to interrogate their own educational experiences and aims to instill a sense of agency and critical thought in how they approach education and community engagement.
Overall, ‘ART of the MOOC: Public Art and Pedagogy’ is not just a course; it’s a transformative journey that empowers individuals to recognize art’s potential in societal change. Whether you’re an artist, educator, or a community member interested in public art, this course offers valuable insights and practical tools for creating impactful interventions. I wholeheartedly recommend it for anyone eager to engage with the power of art within the public sphere.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/public-art-pedagogy