Art Education for New Times

Abstract

The notion of new times is a recognition of a cultural epoch which many observers have called “postmodern.” It is argued that a proliferation of mass media imagery distinguishes our cultural period. We are saturated by visual images just as we are saturated by language, and for art education to engage seriously with students' own cultural preferences, a broad, semiotic conception of visual images is necessary. A new art education is needed which acknowledges crossover between high and popular cultural forms, is commensurate with new technologies, and accommodates a view of individuals as multifaceted. Educational responses to new times are discussed, and a classroom unit derived from media education is offered.