Why work with works of art in the classroom?

How can we broaden our perspective and encourage critical thinking through works of art? How can we question and construct different interpretations of the world through the multiple meanings of artistic objects and practices? How can we develop participatory methodologies with students based on an art collection or exhibition?

Building on a strong belief in the transformative power of art and in the museum as a space for the active and participatory construction of knowledge and interpretations of the world, and aimed at teachers and other educational practitioners, this course offers a theoretical and practical reflection on pedagogical questions surrounding educational curation—the conscious process of selecting works of art for educational purposes—as well as a set of practices and methodologies exploring how working with works of art can foster research, reflection and debate in museums, classrooms or community settings. Throughout the course, participants will explore and develop concrete strategies, methodologies and resources.

This course is intended for teachers at different levels of education, cultural mediators, art educators, museum educators and other professionals working in the field of education.