Fluxus

Definition

Fluxus is an avant-garde movement that emerged in the 1960s, known for its focus on the intersection of art and life, emphasizing the importance of process over product. This movement sought to break down barriers between different art forms, including visual art, performance, and music, encouraging artists to experiment with new media and collaborative practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fluxus was founded by a group of artists in the early 1960s, including George Maciunas, who aimed to create a new form of art that was accessible and engaging for everyone.
2. The movement often included everyday objects and actions in its works, challenging traditional notions of what could be considered art.
3. Fluxus artists frequently collaborated on projects, reflecting a community-oriented approach that contrasted with the individualism often seen in contemporary art.
4. The philosophy behind Fluxus emphasized 'art as life,' encouraging audiences to view artistic experiences as integral to their daily lives rather than separate or elite experiences.
5. Fluxus events were often characterized by spontaneity and unpredictability, aligning with the movement's desire to disrupt conventional art practices and encourage active participation from viewers.

Review Questions

• How did Fluxus artists redefine the concept of art and its relationship to everyday life?
  • Fluxus artists redefined the concept of art by emphasizing that it should be an integral part of everyday life rather than a separate elite experience. They incorporated mundane objects and actions into their works, blurring the lines between art and daily activities. This perspective encouraged viewers to engage with art actively and recognize its relevance in their lives, ultimately fostering a more democratic understanding of creativity.
• Discuss how Fluxus influenced the evolution of video art as a medium for performance and interactivity.
  • Fluxus significantly influenced video art by promoting intermedia practices where video became a tool for documenting performances and engaging audiences. The movement's focus on process over product inspired artists to use video as a way to explore spontaneity and collaboration, leading to works that invited viewer participation. As Fluxus challenged traditional forms of expression, video emerged as an ideal medium for capturing ephemeral moments and fostering real-time interactions.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Fluxus on contemporary art practices, particularly in terms of audience engagement and collaborative creation.
  • The lasting impact of Fluxus on contemporary art is evident in the ongoing emphasis on audience engagement and collaborative creation. Many modern artists draw inspiration from Fluxus principles by creating participatory experiences that invite viewers to become co-creators rather than passive observers. This shift has transformed how art is produced and experienced today, with movements such as relational aesthetics and socially engaged art reflecting Fluxus's core tenets of accessibility, community involvement, and the integration of art into daily life.

Related terms

Intermedia: A term used to describe art that crosses the boundaries between different media, reflecting the Fluxus ethos of blending various artistic forms.

Happenings: Spontaneous performances that blur the line between art and life, often associated with the Fluxus movement and emphasizing audience participation.

Dada: An earlier avant-garde movement that questioned traditional aesthetics and conventions, influencing the development of Fluxus through its anti-art stance.