Surrealism

A lesson plan to introduce students to the international Surrealist art movement of the 1920’s and its influence on a number of Australian artists who adopted it to convey their strong feelings about war, politics and philosophy in the early 20th century. Students will be able to identify the differences between conventional and Surrealist works of art, understand that Surrealism focuses on the exploration of the subconscious mind; through the use of subversion and juxtaposition, distorted imagery, symbolism and elements of dream-like fantasy.

Curriculum Connections

Cross-curriculum priorities: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures, Asia and Australia's engagement with Asia Learning area: Visual Arts. General capabilities: Critical and creative thinking, personal and social cabability, Intercultural understanding, Ethical understanding, Literacy

Themes

Surrealism, Dada, subconscious, dreams, responses to war