Fluxus

Definition

Fluxus is an art movement that emerged in the 1960s, characterized by its focus on the process of creation rather than the final art object. It emphasized intermedia, performance, and collaboration, often blurring the lines between art and everyday life. Fluxus artists sought to challenge traditional notions of art by creating experiences that engaged audiences and fostered participation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fluxus artists often used humor and absurdity in their works to challenge conventional artistic norms and provoke thought.
2. The movement was heavily influenced by Dada and Zen Buddhism, reflecting a desire to break free from traditional artistic constraints.
3. Fluxus events were often collaborative and included a range of disciplines, such as visual arts, music, literature, and performance.
4. Key figures in the Fluxus movement included George Maciunas, Yoko Ono, and Nam June Paik, who contributed to its development through their innovative works.
5. The Fluxus movement played a significant role in the evolution of conceptual art, paving the way for later developments in performance art and installation art.

Review Questions

• How did Fluxus redefine the role of the audience in the creation and experience of art?
  • Fluxus redefined the audience's role by inviting them to actively participate in the artistic experience rather than being mere spectators. This involvement transformed art from a static object into a dynamic process, where viewers could engage with the work through participation. By emphasizing interaction and collaboration, Fluxus challenged traditional hierarchies between artist and audience, allowing for a shared creative experience that blurred boundaries.
• Discuss the influence of Dadaism on the principles and practices of the Fluxus movement.
  • Dadaism significantly influenced Fluxus by introducing concepts of absurdity, anti-art sentiment, and playful experimentation. Fluxus artists embraced these ideals as they sought to dismantle established artistic norms and challenge conventional definitions of art. The emphasis on spontaneity, chance operations, and the inclusion of everyday materials found in Dada works resonated with Fluxus practices, leading to a movement that celebrated creativity as an unpredictable process rather than a predetermined outcome.
• Evaluate how Fluxus contributed to the broader conversation about the nature of art in the context of conceptualism and dematerialization.
  • Fluxus made significant contributions to the conversation surrounding conceptualism and dematerialization by prioritizing ideas over physical objects in art. By focusing on process, participation, and experiences rather than traditional art forms, Fluxus artists highlighted how meaning could be derived from actions and interactions rather than static artworks. This shift challenged viewers' perceptions of what constitutes art and encouraged future generations to explore non-traditional forms of expression, ultimately shaping the landscape of contemporary art.

Related terms

Intermedia: A term used to describe art forms that combine different media, creating a blend of disciplines like visual art, music, and theater.

Happenings: Spontaneous performances or events created by artists that involve audience participation and often occur in non-traditional venues.

Dematerialization: The concept of reducing or eliminating the physicality of the art object, focusing instead on ideas, processes, and experiences.