Kunsthall Stavanger presents The Child as Teacher: Art and Radical Pedagogy, a group exhibition of artwork focusing on the relationship between art and radical pedagogy. Guest curated by Jaroslav Andel and most recently on view at the Reykjavik Museum of Art, this traveling exhibition brings together works by artists who view education as a critical field of study in contemporary society, and who consider creativity an integral part of the learning process.
Inspired by the paradox of diminishing learning capacities in children upon entering formal schooling, the exhibition focuses on the historical interdependency of art, science, education, and democracy. Rooted in the age of the Enlightenment and industrial society, the present system of education also carries the institutional heritage of discipline and control. On the other hand, reform movements such as progressive and radical pedagogy have advanced the ideas of freedom and equality, and with them the role of art and creativity.
The project is based on collaborations by leading international artists, scientists, and educators and includes works of art, archival and documentary material as well as a series of public events such as workshops, discussions, and lectures.
Participating artists include Eva Bakkeslett, Luis Camnitzer, Priscila Fernandes, Michael Joaquin Grey, Ane Hjort Guttu, Markus Kayser, Eva Kotátková, James Mollison, Petr Nikl, Renzo Piano, Calvin Seibert, and Society for a Merrier Present.