Here is a myth about artists: They know exactly what they want to do and how to do it and were born with the ideas, skills, and knowledge to make their work. Art21 films dispel this myth for students by allowing them to witness David Altmejd’s inquiring journey in the studio. Altmejd’s work can change students’ perceptions of 3D art, which is my main intent for showing the films in my classroom.

In addition, Altmejd’s thoughtful artwork pushes boundaries for students, freeing them from mundane or traditional concepts of sculpture, which can set them on a creative inquiring journey. My students have mentioned that contemporary artists give them new perspectives on the images and ideas of art. Other artists in this playlist go beyond the idea of sculpture.

Read about how Dennis teaches with this playlist in his classroom.

In the spring of 2020, Damien Hirst initiated a competition on Instagram, with a prize going to the winning answer of this question: “Why are art and kids always so connected?” My answer—“Children just do things. Adults call it art.”—didn’t win the prize, but for a long time, I have thought about making a video playlist to introduce young children to art that isn’t considered traditional. Most of us grew up with a very narrow definition of art. When we looked at art, it was probably in a museum, we could recognize the materials used, and we might even recognize the name of the artist, who was probably a White male. Fast forward twenty-five or fifty years and much less of that holds true. The vast majority of the public is probably confused, wondering what’s going on with contemporary art.

I start teaching art classes at my school with the children in kindergarten. As much as I focus on materials and their proper use and care, I start by introducing radical ideas of what art can look like and how art can make a difference. I like to think that the sooner I can broaden the idea of the traditional definition of art, the sooner and the longer the students will consider themselves artists.

My playlist consists of artists who use nontraditional materials and techniques that don’t come to mind when one typically thinks of art.

Read about how Catherine teaches with this playlist in her classroom.

Since the earliest forms of creative expression, artists have employed the human body as muses, tools, and vessels for setting about their vision. From figurative representation to trials of endurance, artists have established the body to be a reliably protean material.

“The viewer has a body too,” said Janine Antoni, “and can empathize with what I’ve put myself through to make the artwork.” Embracing an inherent empathy, the artists in this playlist utilize the human body through explorations of appearance, identity, and social concerns.