Fluxus East

Definition

Fluxus East refers to the branch of the Fluxus movement that originated and developed in Eastern Europe, particularly in countries like Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, during the 1960s and 1970s. It is characterized by a blend of Eastern artistic traditions and Western avant-garde practices, resulting in unique performances and compositions that challenge conventional forms of art and music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fluxus East emerged as a response to both local cultural traditions and global avant-garde movements, incorporating elements from Eastern philosophy and aesthetics.
2. Artists involved in Fluxus East often used humor and absurdity in their works to critique societal norms and challenge expectations of art.
3. Notable figures associated with Fluxus East include Japanese artists like Yoko Ono and Takehisa Kosugi, who contributed to redefining performance art.
4. Fluxus East performances often took place in unconventional spaces, emphasizing the idea that art could happen anywhere and at any time.
5. The influence of Fluxus East can be seen in contemporary performance art practices that continue to blend cultural influences and challenge traditional boundaries.

Review Questions

• How did the cultural context of Eastern Europe influence the development of Fluxus East?
  • The cultural context of Eastern Europe played a significant role in shaping Fluxus East by incorporating local artistic traditions and philosophies into the broader avant-garde movement. This blending of Eastern influences with Western practices allowed artists to create unique performances that resonated with their cultural heritage while also engaging with global art trends. The result was a distinctive approach that emphasized spontaneity, humor, and critique of societal norms.
• In what ways did artists associated with Fluxus East utilize humor and absurdity in their works?
  • Artists associated with Fluxus East often employed humor and absurdity as tools for critique, challenging conventional expectations of art and society. By using playful and unexpected elements in their performances, they encouraged audiences to rethink their assumptions about what constitutes art. This approach not only made their work accessible but also invited viewers to participate actively in the experience, breaking down barriers between artist and audience.
• Evaluate the impact of Fluxus East on contemporary performance art practices around the world.
  • The impact of Fluxus East on contemporary performance art is profound, as it introduced new ways of thinking about art as an experience rather than a fixed object. By blurring the lines between different disciplines and embracing interactivity, Fluxus East has influenced countless artists today who continue to explore the fusion of cultural elements in their work. This legacy encourages a more inclusive understanding of art that reflects diverse backgrounds and challenges traditional boundaries.

Related terms

Fluxus: An international network of artists and composers known for their experimental and interdisciplinary approach, focusing on the fusion of art, music, and everyday life.

Happenings: Spontaneous and interactive performances that engage audiences in a theatrical context, often associated with the Fluxus movement.

Intermedia: A term coined by Fluxus artist Dick Higgins to describe works that combine multiple art forms, breaking down the barriers between disciplines like music, visual art, and theater.