The Art Bears were a British avant-garde music group formed in 1970, known for their experimental approach to rock and contemporary music. The band consisted of members Chris Cutler, Fred Frith, and Dagmar Krause, who combined elements of progressive rock, free improvisation, and European folk music. Their work often featured complex rhythms, unconventional song structures, and thought-provoking lyrics. Active until 1978, The Art Bears released several influential albums, including Hopes and Fears and The World as It Is Today. Their music is characterized by a blend of political themes and personal introspection, making them a significant part of the Rock in Opposition movement, which sought to challenge mainstream music conventions.