The Conceptual Framework A Campbellsensei Production (Where we put kittens first!)

The NSW DET conceptual framework of the artworld shows how the key agencies (or components) of the artworld relate, influence and are linked to one another. It’s very interesting…

It’s about The Relationships There are four agencies in the framework which interact with each other: The Artwork The World The Artist The Audience

Here is a diagram explaining the agencies of the artworld and their interconnectedness…

Artwork Artist Audience World

We need to consider how art is affected by and represents experience, class, ideology, age and significant historical events. This agency also encompasses the cultural setting in which the art is made, and the changing social values within and outside that culture.

Artworks include art, craft and design as two- and three-dimensional works (including architecture), and four-dimensional and time-based works. Artworks represent ideas. They reflect personal responses (Subjective), cultural views (Cultural) and symbolic interpretations (Structural) An artwork can also present a critical reinterpretation of another idea. (Post Mod.)

Artists include painters, photographers, sculptors, craftspeople, designers and architects. Consider the role of the artist: who they are, what they do, and how and why they do it. The artist is commonly thought of as an individual but can also be viewed as, for example, a group or movement.

We need to consider how art critics, historians, collectors, patrons (benefactors) and the general public respond to art. Different audiences will experience, understand and value artworks differently. As a Visual Arts student you are also represented here.

When You Study Art: In Visual Arts, you can use the conceptual framework to arrange your research, notes and ideas. It will help you to consider the relevance of the information you gather. Group your information around the framework via the frames.

This is a handout all about it!

When you Make Art: World: consider what events and artists have influenced you. Artwork: think about artworks that have resonated with you. You may draw creative influences from these. Artist: think about the artists that inspire you – who they are, what they do and why they do it. Audience: consider how various people will experience your artworks.