Part I -- "Examining the History of Contemporary Art"

Laura Hoptman

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 (4-6 p.m.)

New Museum Kraus Family Senior Curator Laura Hoptman will offer a short history of contemporary art, from its beginnings in the eighteenth century to today. Issues to be discussed include:

• What makes something modern?
• What makes something contemporary?
• What makes something art?
• What is “new” about “new” art?
• What’s it to me?

Examples of artworks from a wide range of periods and cultures will be incorporated in to the discussion, including works currently on display in the New Museum exhibitions.

Part II -- "What's It To Me"

New Museum Education Department

Wednesday, May 14th, 2008 (4-6 p.m.)

Picking up where Senior Curator Laura Hoptman left off, teachers will explore visual inquiry and object-based learning in the Museum’s galleries, and develop lesson plans around current exhibitions.

2007-2008 Professional Development for Teachers

Professional Development for Teachers aims to supplement high school teachers’ knowledge of contemporary art practices and issues through directed lectures, participatory workshops, and object-based learning. The series of teacher-focused workshops and lectures provide teachers with historical and contextual information about contemporary art and will be offered three times during the academic school year. Open to all art, math, global studies, and English teachers in New York City. Professional Development dates for the 2008-2009 academic year are November 4, February 2, and June 4. Please register to receive information about our upcoming events, workshops, and lectures.