Have you wondered if using contemporary art with your students would engage and inspire them on a deeper level? Or even help them cope with the world we live in? Why is contemporary art so interesting, and why does it hold so much weight and presence? It is everywhere! Contemporary art is art that is happening right now and therefore is relevant to our lives.

Every issue of SchoolArts magazine features contemporary artists and artwork. Why? Because the diversity in expression, and the uncountable cultural, ethnic, gender, and social influences behind contemporary art, allow teachers to provide increasingly diverse student bodies with a broad range of artistic expression. Contemporary art is often centered around major social, political, or cultural events. It gives people a voice, brings communities together, and encourages meaningful conversations.

In this book, SchoolArts editor Nancy Walkup and the Davis editorial team have chosen articles from experienced educators who use contemporary arts in their classes. Organized into chapters on Identity, Social Issues, Collaboration, and Nontraditional Processes, SchoolArts Collection: Contemporary Art provides engaging lessons with inspiring ideas such as:

• documenting self through photography
• developing empathy through experience
• altering enclosed spaces
• creating a student-centered community