Levels 3-8

Each Wednesday morning from Week 4, Term 3, join an NGV Educator live from The Picasso Century for a short and lively introduction to a work from the exhibition. To have your questions answered about the Wednesday Work of the Week send them in advance to education.bookings@ngv.vic.gov.au

A program recording will also be available to access online for booked participants for one week.

A very happy picture

In 1947, American artist Dorothea Tanning painted A very happy picture. What is happening in the painting, and why has she described it as “happy”? Tune in to this Wednesday Work of the Week to unravel some of the mysteries in Tanning’s artwork and learn about the influence of dreams and the subconscious in her practice.

Duration: 15 mins

Cost: Free

Learning objectives

• Identify and describe the visual characteristics of Dorothea Tanning’s art
• Interpret symbolic elements in A very happy picture
• Evaluate the role of dreams and the subconscious in Surrealist art