Christo, Wei Wei, and Dadang

Question 1

Christo Key Points

Answer 1

• interventions in the world and the built environment
• alters both the physical form and the visual experience of the sites
• allows viewers to perceive locations with a new appreciation of their formal energetic and volumetric qualities

Question 2

Christo Postmodern

Answer 2

• a new sculptural dimension, challenges conventions of art
• transformation, wrapping and revealing
• questions gallery space and the function of art and the role of the artist
• develops epic aesthetic accounts of the environment

Question 3

Christo Conceptual

Answer 3

• worlds out of gallery space
• documented form
• makes a statement to the audience
• no spontaneity
• entirely financed by artists

Question 4

Christo Cultural

Answer 4

• reveals essence of buildings in different locations

- fabric as a fascination of art, historical influence

Question 5

Christo, Wrapped Reichstag: Project for Berlin 1971-95

Answer 5

• For 2 weeks, the rich flow of vertical folds highlighted the features and proportions of the imposing structure, revealing the essence of the Reichstag
• Building stands in open, metaphysical area
• symbol of democracy
• shiny light coloured fabric takes force of the wind, building appears to be breathing
• communal energy (collaboration)
• forming folds, pleats and draperies
• classical tradition of using fabric

Question 6

Wei Wei Key Points

Answer 6

• his work is founded on an engagement with China’s cultural heritage
• responds to the contemporary issues in a changing China
• refers to himself as a readymade artist, merging his life and art to advocate both the freedoms and responsibilities of individuals

Question 7

Wei Wei Postmodern

Answer 7

• re-contextualises objects and challenges traditions and contemporary issues
• ready made: challenges every day function, questions value of art and role of artist
• social media as an art form

Question 8

Wei Wei Cultural

Answer 8

• works are layered with Chinese history and culture

Question 9

Wei Wei Conceptual

Answer 9

• responds to changes occurring

- challenges audience to reconsider historical culture

Question 10

Wei Wei, Sunflower Seeds

Answer 10

• preciousness of materials, effort of production, and personal content make this work a powerful commentary on the human condition
• porcelain (prized exports)
• seeds individually sculpted/painted in workshops
• traditional craftsmanship, “made in China” phenomenon
• vast sculpture and installation, commentary on relationship between individuals and masses
• poses questions: what does it mean to be an individual today? are we insignificant and powerless unless we stand together?
• perceptions are challenged

Question 11

Dadang Key Points

Answer 11

• father disappeared when he was 8, no explanation

- addresses social and political unrest

Question 12

Dadang Cultural

Answer 12

• use of real people in work - dedication to issue, personal
• monuments commemorating freedom
• raises awareness and sympathy
• cultural activism

Question 13

Dadang Post Modern

Answer 13

• performance art

- globalised culture

Question 14

Dadang Conceptual

Answer 14

• encourages audience to interact
• artist is aware of the effect on audience
• issues presented are “distant from their (audiences) reality” however they react and are “interested in the themes evident”
• different cultures = different presentation (black plastic)

Question 15

Dadang, They Give Evidence

Answer 15

• reflects the traumatic incident from Dadang’s childhood
• volatile political situation, censorship
• each face slightly different expression
• bundles batik fabric - identity
• figures stand in grid-like formation, all facing the same direction representing displaced victims
• mute but express non-verbally a silent monument of communal grief
• when performed in jakarta protests about nudity - black coverings - revealed and given new life in Australia
• already silent but black plastic added a new dimension and forced figures to physically disappear