Intro to Art History for High School: Street Art, Grafitti, and Culture

 In this week, students will explore the origins and early influences of street art and graffiti. They will delve into the predecessors and historical roots of these art forms, examining the political and social factors that played a role in their emergence. Students will also be introduced to influential artists such as Cornbread, Taki 183, Phase 2, and Lady Pink, whose works shaped the early graffiti scene. 

 During this week, students will focus on the birth of hip-hop culture in New York City and its connection to street art. They will explore how graffiti became intertwined with the other elements of hip-hop, including breakdancing, DJing, and MCing. Through studying the works of renowned artists like Dondi White, Futura 2000, Seen, and Blade, students will gain a deeper understanding of the vibrant relationship between graffiti and hip-hop culture. 

 In Week 3, students will examine the influential Chicano art movement and its impact on street art in California. They will explore the rich tradition of Chicano muralism and its connections to street art, focusing on artists such as Carlos Almaraz, Judy Baca, El Mac, and Chaz Bojórquez. Through analyzing their works, students will gain insights into the cultural significance and artistic contributions of the Chicano movement. 

 During this week, students will be introduced to major street art movements and collectives. They will explore the influence of pop art on street art and examine the practice of culture jamming. Students will also delve into guerrilla art, installation art, and site-specific interventions, studying renowned artists like Keith Haring, Jenny Holzer, Swoon, and Invader who played significant roles in these movements.