Fluxus

Definition

Fluxus is an international art movement that emerged in the 1960s, known for its experimental and interdisciplinary approach to art, emphasizing the importance of the creative process over the final product. The movement combined elements of visual art, music, and performance, often challenging traditional notions of art and encouraging audience participation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fluxus was founded by George Maciunas in 1961, who aimed to create a radical new form of art that integrated life and art.
2. The movement drew inspiration from Dadaism and Surrealism, emphasizing absurdity and chance as central elements in artistic expression.
3. Fluxus artists often used everyday objects and actions in their work, encouraging viewers to see art in ordinary experiences.
4. Yoko Ono's 'Cut Piece' is a seminal fluxus performance that invited audience members to cut away pieces of her clothing, challenging notions of vulnerability and participation.
5. Fluxus challenged the commercialization of art by promoting the idea that art should be accessible to everyone, not just confined to galleries and museums.

Review Questions

• How did the principles of fluxus challenge traditional definitions of art during its emergence?
  • The principles of fluxus challenged traditional definitions of art by promoting the idea that the process of creation is more important than the final product. Fluxus artists emphasized experimentation and audience participation, blurring the lines between artist and viewer. This movement rejected established norms in favor of spontaneous expression and intermedia practices, thereby redefining what could be considered art.
• Discuss how the concept of anti-art is reflected in fluxus works and performances.
  • The concept of anti-art is deeply embedded in fluxus works as artists sought to subvert conventional artistic values and critique the commercialization of art. By using everyday materials and actions, fluxus performances often took an irreverent approach to established forms. This rejection of traditional aesthetics allowed artists to create works that challenged audiences' perceptions and expectations regarding what constitutes art.
• Evaluate the impact of fluxus on contemporary art practices and audience engagement.
  • Fluxus has significantly impacted contemporary art practices by paving the way for more interactive and participatory forms of expression. Its emphasis on intermedia has encouraged artists to merge various disciplines, creating works that engage audiences in new ways. Today, many contemporary artists continue to explore ideas rooted in fluxus, blurring the boundaries between art and everyday life while fostering a sense of community among participants.

Related terms

Intermedia:

A term that describes artworks that blend different media, such as visual art, performance, and music, which is a key characteristic of fluxus.

Anti-art: An artistic stance that rejects conventional standards and traditions in art, often embraced by fluxus artists to challenge the established art world.

Happenings: Spontaneous and interactive performances that emerged in the 1960s, closely associated with fluxus, where the distinction between artist and audience becomes blurred.