Course Description: Site-Specific Performance Art

This course delves into the dynamic and evolving realm of site-specific performance art, exploring its unique characteristics, historical context, and contemporary practices. Site-specific performance transcends the traditional confines of the stage, engaging directly with the environment—whether natural or built—to create meaningful and often transformative artistic experiences. Students will investigate the theoretical underpinnings of this art form while developing their own creative projects.

Course Objectives

• To gain a comprehensive understanding of the historical development of site-specific performance art.
• To analyze the diverse ways in which artists utilize specific locations to inform and shape their performances.
• To explore the relationship between body, space, and environment in performance.
• To examine the ethical considerations involved in creating art within various public and private spaces.
• To develop critical thinking skills regarding the impact of location on artistic meaning and viewer experience.
• To foster collaborative practices in creating site-specific projects.
• To cultivate the ability to document and reflect upon ephemeral performance works.
• To enhance individual artistic voice within the framework of site-specific performance.
• To critically analyze performance art through various theoretical lenses.
• To provide a working knowledge of key figures and movements within the field.

Core Concepts Explored

• The interplay between architecture, landscape, and the performing body.
• The use of found objects and materials within site-specific contexts.
• The ephemeral nature of performance and the role of documentation.
• The politics of space and place and their impact on artistic expression.
• The relationship between audience participation and the site-specific experience.
• How site specificity challenges traditional notions of the art object and gallery.
• The integration of technology and digital media in site-specific works.
• Exploration of duration, repetition, and gesture within particular locations.
• The impact of time of day, weather, and seasonal changes on performance.
• How site-specific performances can foster social engagement and community building.

Areas of Focus

• Investigating the historical roots of site-specific performance from Happenings and Fluxus to present-day practices.
• Studying influential artists and their groundbreaking site-based works.
• Exploring methods for selecting and responding to specific sites and their inherent meanings.
• Developing strategies for generating performance ideas directly inspired by the chosen environment.
• Practical approaches to staging and implementing performance pieces outside traditional theatrical spaces.
• Understanding how to work with site-specific performance and documentation ethics.
• Approaches to working with non-traditional audiences.
• Learning how to address the logistics of working outdoors and in unpredictable locations.
• Understanding and applying principles of artistic risk-taking in a site-specific context.
• Delving into the process of adapting existing performance works to new locations.

Learning Outcomes

• Students will be able to articulate a well-informed understanding of the history and theory of site-specific performance.
• Students will be able to identify and analyze diverse strategies employed by artists in site-specific works.
• Students will be proficient in the process of researching, developing, and executing original site-specific performances.
• Students will demonstrate critical thinking in assessing the effectiveness of site-specific performance interventions.
• Students will be able to effectively document and analyze the impact of their own and others’ site-specific projects.
• Students will develop the skills to collaborate effectively on site-based performance projects.
• Students will articulate the ethical considerations necessary for performance in public and private spaces.
• Students will be able to present clear and concise reflections on their artistic processes and outcomes.
• Students will be proficient in using site analysis to formulate performative interventions.
• Students will understand and respond to the challenges of working in diverse and unpredictable locations.

Emphasis and Values

• Encouraging an investigative and experimental approach to performance creation.
• Fostering a critical awareness of the socio-political contexts in which art is created and experienced.
• Promoting collaborative learning and knowledge sharing among peers.
• Developing a sense of agency and artistic responsibility in utilizing public spaces.
• Cultivating a deep appreciation for the ephemeral and experiential nature of performance art.
• Highlighting the importance of documentation and reflection as integral parts of artistic practice.
• Emphasizing the transformative potential of art in engaging with our environment.
• Encouraging dialogue between artistic intention, site, and audience response.
• Focusing on innovative ways of creating meaning within performance.
• Nurturing original and impactful artistic voices within each student.

Additional Course Information

• This course encourages an understanding of performance as a complex interaction between body, space, and environment.
• Through practical exercises and critical reflection, you will gain experience in conceptualizing, creating, and staging original site-specific projects.
• The course offers a blend of theoretical exploration and hands-on, practical engagement.
• The course promotes a learning environment of support, critical thinking and constructive feedback.
• This course will challenge your artistic boundaries and encourage you to think outside the traditional performance box.
• The ephemeral nature of site-specific performance will be addressed through the importance of documentation.
• This course will encourage exploration of the power of artistic intervention in the built and natural environment.
• The course encourages both individual and collaborative projects, fostering a well-rounded learning experience.
• The course will enhance your understanding of artistic responsibility when working in different environments and with various publics.
• You will develop your ability to create performances that engage with a wide range of contexts and audiences.