Activating art education learning by mapping community cultures

In this chapter, the author describes a class assignment that invites university students to explore the concept of placemaking as outcome, and of mapping as methodology in contemporary art education. The objective of this is to challenge students' preconceptions of how and where community-based art education is described and practiced. The project also encourages connections to trends and processes in contemporary art. The author presents student interpretations of the assignment through two projects, inviting readers to follow an examination of ideas for local practice through global thinking. In summary, this chapter suggests a model or strategy for educators and community-based art professionals to initiate socially engaged civic praxis, and activate discussion about global thinking, by mapping local visuality.