Conceptual art represents a gradual paradigm shift in attitudes regarding the function, value, and role of art and artists. Conceptualism places ideas which the artist wishes to communicate over the value of the art object itself.
As arts educators in the 21st century, the notion of concept in art is integral to meaningful art making and educative experiences. In my own art making, I often struggle with which ought to come first, the meaningful idea and the best laid plans that follow, or if it is better to create intuitively and allow the meaning therein to emerge in the process. Perhaps the best approach is a synergistic relationship between the two. However, to me, concept is tantamount to content. The work contains nothing and has little to no artistic value without the ability to communicate concepts. Concepts can be as simple and specific as the careful tenderness of deep and committed observation, or as sweeping and obtuse as mortality or identity. Either way, art must contain thinking and communicate ideas in order to have value.
Well said.
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