What is the difference between conceptual and performance art?

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What is the difference between conceptual and performance art?

The main difference between conceptual and performance art lies in their respective focuses and mediums of expression.

Conceptual art emphasizes the idea or concept behind the artwork rather than its physical form or aesthetic qualities. It often involves the use of various mediums such as text, photographs, or installations to convey a specific concept or message. The emphasis is on the intellectual and philosophical aspects of the artwork, challenging traditional notions of art and its purpose.

On the other hand, performance art is centered around live actions or events that are performed by the artist or a group of participants. It involves the use of the artist's body as the medium of expression, often incorporating elements of theater, dance, or music. Performance art is characterized by its ephemeral nature, as it typically occurs in a specific time and place, leaving behind only documentation or memories of the performance.

In summary, conceptual art focuses on ideas and concepts, utilizing various mediums to convey them, while performance art involves live actions or events performed by the artist, using the body as the primary medium of expression.