What defines a 'happening' in the context of fine art?

A 'happening' in the context of fine art is characterized by its interactive nature, where audience participation and improvisation play significant roles. This art form emerged in the 1950s and 1960s as a reaction against traditional, static forms of art and emphasized the experience, spontaneity, and collaborative aspects of creation. The audience becomes an integral part of the art piece, often influencing the direction and outcome of the performance.

This concept contrasts with static artworks, which do not change and do not invite interaction, as well as with works that require strict adherence to a script, thereby limiting spontaneity and audience engagement. The idea that a happening is performed only once can apply in some instances, but it is not a defining characteristic of the genre. Instead, the focus is on the dynamic interaction between the performers and participants, making the first option the most accurate representation of what defines a 'happening' in fine art.