Wes Underwood
Primarily using video and web-based media, Underwood creates artworks that criticize conventional teaching methods and ideologies. Strongly believing that current educational models are overly-based on 'extrinsic' - as opposed to 'intrinsic' motivation, the artist's works encourage self-expression, use of imagination and learning through experience. Humorous, abstract and often full of irony, Underwood's video projects have taken up topics such as acronyms, sentence building, sexual orientation, Chinese parks and how to make better self-introductions.Statement
"Educational theory, as an influential force in all of our lives, should definitely be an important theme within contemporary art. Growing up the son of an English teacher and applied linguist, I naturally came to be extremely conscious of language and the manner in which I learn. It wasn't until I did a stint of teaching in Japan that I realized a lot of people - students and teachers alike, don't think much about how they really acquire skills and knowledge. Instead of interaction, self-expression and practical application, many schools are still focusing on passive listening, rote memorization and almost meaningless exams. This results in poor motivation, stunted creativity and sub-par communication skills. I had to do something about it."Works
World Of Acronyms
In the texting age, acronyms have pretty much taken over. Underwood gets the viewer to imagine endless possibilities of meanings for each acronym.Building Bigger Sentences
Criticizing language education's emphasis on complex sentence structure and grammatical accuracy, this satirical series of videos builds staggeringly long sentences around mundane or utterly outlandish themes.Asia Outside My Window
When Underwood lived in Tokyo, Asia was literally outside his window. On his daily walks around Asian cities, he would video the locals and then put the results together as this series of collages.Better Adjectives
This humorous series tries to see how far adjectives can be taken while still remaining true to the context they are being used in.Secret English
Secret English focuses on words and phrases that are commonly taught to ESL students, though they might not be good expressions for fostering real communication and self-expression.Swearing At The Sun
People around the world shout their favorite swear words at the sun. This creative form of release and self-expression led to this series of videos to be banned in 7 countries, including China and Saudi Arabia.Coming Soon
Grammar Grandma
Our favorite grandma teaches us the finer nuances of grammar in order to help prevent nuclear war.Colors
This abstract series of videos forces viewers to consider contemporary life and the prejudice surrounding color orientation.Coming Soon
How to Make a Positive First Impression
Because we never get a second chance to make a first impression, Underwood gives his tips on how to get it right the first time.Coming Soon
TOEIC Porn
In this mischievous video, Underwood mixes scenes of students studying for the TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) with soundtracks from pornographic videos. Hear people achieve orgasm as they memorize common phrasal verbs.Coming Soon
