Welcome to Inside Art, an innovative web-based visual literacy program that integrates social studies with contemporary art in an examination and discussion of critical societal issues. This secondary school program is provided free of charge to all teachers by the Institute for Research in Art at the University of South Florida, Tampa.

Inside Art is a learning-based initiative, designed for classroom use, associated with the exhibition program of the University of South Florida’s Contemporary Art Museum (USFCAM). Using a variety of web technologies and media, including video, web-based dialogues, and social media, Inside Art presents critical issues to students and invites them to engage and connect with these issues in the context of contemporary art. By exploring art that encompasses a variety of relevant topics, students are allowed to move from the role of spectator to that of engaged viewer and then participant, and encouraged to build interpretive skills vital to success in learning. Rich in dynamic and informative content, Inside Art serves as both an excellent supplement to Museum visits and as an effective stand-alone educational unit.

The 2010 edition of Inside Art focuses on the USFCAM exhibition Carlos Garaicoa: La enmienda que hay en mí (Making Amends). Inspired by the architecture and culture of his native Havana, Cuba, Garaicoa explores issues relevant to contemporary society including urbanism, politics, history and human rights. He incorporates drawing, photography, sculpture and text in dramatic, large-scale installations as well as precious miniatures.

The 2012 edition of Inside Art focuses on the USFCAM exhibition Mark Dion: Troubleshooting. For decades, Mark Dion has created drawings, prints, cabinets of curiosity, archaeological digs, and sprawling installations about the discrepancy between perceived knowledge and scientific inquiry, between common perception and advanced research. His works have addressed famous intellectuals in history, such as William Bartram, as well as important social and environmental sites, most recently the fragile Florida Everglades. Mark Dion: Troubleshooting is a focused survey of his most ecologically-themed works.

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To begin this exciting journey, please register by providing some basic information in the following fields. A password and a link to the secure login site will be emailed to you within one business day.

NOTE: The lesson plans are free to download and use, but we require registration for two reasons: first, in order to assure only teachers access the information; and second, for us to know how widely and by whom the Inside Art program is being utilized.

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If you have questions about Inside Art, the lessons or Carlos Garaicoa, please Email an Expert

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InsideART Press Release (pdf)

Inside Art is a project of the USF Institute for Research in Art: Contemporary Art Museum and Graphicstudio Supported in part by:

The SEA Foundation

USF College of The Arts

USF College of Education

Hillsborough County Public Schools

Florida Division of Cultural Affairs

 

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