A conceptual artist is an individual who creates art primarily focused on ideas and concepts rather than traditional aesthetic or material concerns. This form of art emphasizes the message or meaning behind the work, often challenging viewers to think critically about the nature of art itself. Conceptual artists may use various mediums, including installation art, performance art, and text-based works. The movement gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, with influential figures like Sol LeWitt and Marcel Duchamp paving the way. Conceptual art often invites audience participation and interpretation, making the viewer an integral part of the artistic experience.