Fluxus multiples

Definition

Fluxus multiples are a form of art and cultural production that emerged from the Fluxus movement in the 1960s, characterized by their emphasis on accessibility and participation. These artworks often take the form of mass-produced objects, performance pieces, or event scores that can be replicated, allowing a broader audience to engage with the art. The concept challenges traditional notions of art as a singular, unique object, promoting the idea that art can be shared and experienced collectively.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fluxus multiples were created to make art more accessible to the general public, reflecting the movement's philosophy of breaking down the barriers between high art and everyday life.
2. These multiples often included everyday objects, such as toys, postcards, or printed materials, which could be easily reproduced and distributed.
3. Many Fluxus multiples featured instructions or 'event scores' that encouraged participation and interaction from viewers, inviting them to experience the artwork actively.
4. The practice of creating Fluxus multiples was a direct response to the commercialization of art and aimed to democratize artistic expression.
5. Fluxus artists valued process over product, believing that the act of creating and sharing art was as important as the final outcome.

Review Questions

• How did Fluxus multiples challenge traditional ideas about what constitutes a work of art?
  • Fluxus multiples challenged traditional ideas by promoting the notion that art could be a shared experience rather than a unique object held in a gallery. By creating mass-produced works that were accessible to everyone, Fluxus artists shifted the focus from individual ownership and elitism in art to collective participation. This approach blurred the lines between art and everyday life, encouraging people to interact with art in new and meaningful ways.
• In what ways did Fluxus multiples reflect the philosophical underpinnings of the Fluxus movement?
  • Fluxus multiples embody the movement's philosophy by prioritizing accessibility, participation, and collaboration over individual artistic genius. They often took mundane objects or activities and transformed them into art, demonstrating that creativity can arise from daily life. The emphasis on performance scores and event-based art further illustrates how Fluxus artists sought to engage audiences actively, breaking away from conventional artistic practices.
• Evaluate the impact of Fluxus multiples on contemporary art practices and the concept of reproducibility in art.
  • Fluxus multiples have had a lasting impact on contemporary art by influencing how artists approach reproducibility and accessibility. The idea that an artwork doesn't have to be unique has opened up new avenues for artistic expression, allowing for diverse interpretations and collaborations. This legacy can be seen in various movements today that embrace digital media, installation art, and participatory practices, furthering the dialogue around what defines an artwork in a rapidly evolving cultural landscape.

Related terms

Fluxus: A radical, intermedia art movement founded in the early 1960s that aimed to break down barriers between art and everyday life through performances, installations, and events.

Edition prints: Artworks produced in multiple copies, often signed and numbered by the artist, emphasizing both accessibility and the original artwork's value.

Conceptual art: An art movement where the idea or concept behind the artwork is more important than the finished product, often challenging traditional aesthetics.