Thursday, April 11, 2013

SHOOT SOME HOOPS WITH ART


OSCAR TUAZON: PUBLIC ART, PIER 1 BROOKLYN
July 19, 2012- April 26, 2013

Oscar Tuazon creates sculptures that enliven natural environments.  Three sculptures reside in Brooklyn Bridge Park that are so entwined with the landscapes that it is hard to even find them.  A cement block hangs in a tree, a fountain stemming from a tree, and a basketball hoop just out of reach.  This is the last month to engage in his landscapes-- your kids will love finding these interesting spaces.  Additionally, it's a good excuse to check out the new $5 million dollar pedestrian bridge-- it bounces!

From Public Art Fund:  Inspired by the resourceful creativity of urban neighborhoods, the structures suggest sculptural variations on familiar playground designs. // Tuazon’s work deals inventively with the fundamental aspects of sculpture such as balance, volume, and weight. At the same time, his installation creates a playful dialogue with built and natural forms against the Manhattan skyline. 

QUESTIONS TO ASK:

1. The artist hopes that his pieces can be so integrated and utilized that the viewer can forget they are "art."  Let the kids explore and discover!
2. How is experiencing sculptures outside at the park different from inside a gallery?
3. Are there any similarities between the three pieces?
4. This is the last month to see these works.  What kind of public art would you like to see up next?

LINKS TO DIVE DEEPER:

* Public Art Fund website about the project and interview with the artist.

* "Art You Are Supposed to Play With" article by The Art Newspaper


EXTENSIONS:

Make your own environment out of cardboard boxes.  Depending how extensive and detailed you want to go-- make a building or a sculpture.  Keep it up in your playroom permanently or use it for an hours entertainment!  Check out this Australian Artist, Annalise Rise, for inspiration for your cardboard city.



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