The Art of Hip-Hop
Lesson 10: Is Hip-Hop Art?
Objectives:
- To critically analyze society’s opinion of what is considered art, and how people’s attitudes toward considering Hip-Hop Culture as a form of art are affected by classism.
Materials:
- Projector
- Lap-top
- Internet access
Procedure
Discussion & Definition:
Ask the group:
- What is art?
Definition
Art: Art is the process or product of deliberately arranging elements in a way that appeals to the senses or emotions. It encompasses a diverse range of human activities, creations, and modes of expression, including music and literature. The meaning of art is explored in a branch of philosophy known as Aesthetics.
- en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikiquote:art
Discussion Questions: :
- What/who defines “Art”?
- Is Hip Hop an art?
- Does Contemporary society see Hip Hop as an art?
- How does your parents/teachers view Hip-Hop?
Video and Discussion
Compare and contrast differences and similarities between Hip-Hop and traditional art forms.
Graffiti vs. Classical Paintings:
Video 1: Sistine Chapel (celebrated artwork)Play video (3:00 min).
Video 2: Style Wars Part 1 (play at 1:30)Play video (9:49 min).
Rap vs. Shakespeare:
Video 3: Shakespeare - "To Be or Not To Be" (celebrated play)Play video (3:17 min).
Video 4: Eminem - "Stan" (music video)Play video (6:10 min).
B-Boying vs. Ballet:
Video 5: "Shades" (excerpt from ballet)Play video (1:30 min).
Video 6: (HD!) Ichigeki (Japan) Showcase BOTY 2005 International (dance showcase)Play video (7:33 min).
Video 7: Karajan - Beethoven Symphony No. 5 - Part 1 (classic music)
Play video (6:59 min).
DJ Qbert (music video)Play video (4:08 min).
Discussion:
- Talk about the differences and similarities between the various videos shown.
- If necessary ask again “Is Hip-Hop an art?” add the question “Why?”
Question & Answer (Informal Evaluation)
Time for participants to ask questions, give comments and feedback about anything they found interesting from the workshop.
END OF PART 2
