Portraits
Please note that this workshop will only be running until Fri 30th March 2012.
Pupils observe and investigate the relationships between people and the objects depicted with them in their portraits. Then they create their own portraits using two and three-dimensional techniques.
Aims (Skills, Knowledge, Activity, Result)
- To challenge preconceived ideas about what a portrait is, to recognise how artists use a range of visual elements in to convey meaning, particularly through the use of objects, and also colour, style, dress and posture.
- To interpret what these visual clues might mean about the character and identity of the person and the time that they are living in.
- To make drawings/notes in the gallery using the ideas found in the artworks; focusing on the use of objects to represent ideas about the children’s own identities.
- To make portraits in our studios based on ideas collected in the galleries, using real everyday objects and a mixed media technique.
- To expand vocabulary, understanding and confidence through experiencing the artworks.
What happens in a workshop
The workshop begins with a tour using artworks from the gallery to inspire discussion, drawing and writing. The artworks range from the 18th Century to the current day with the children considering what these portraits tell us about each person by responding to a variety of clues in the artworks, focusing on the meanings of objects. Through these clues we will also discuss some wider ideas about society at the time. We visit the Interactive Gallery to try a ‘scrap collage’ portrait challenge using objects to make a portrait. This idea is extended into a group activity using photocopies of objects to make an individual collage and charcoal portrait.
Prepare for your visit
- Discuss the value of experiencing real art through a gallery visit rather than reproductions.
- Collect images of different portraits – reproductions, images from magazines or newspapers, or photos.
- Discuss different portraits that the children may have seen at home, school or in galleries before, or portraits they may have made.
- Consider differences in style, shape and scale, and perhaps facial expression.
- Arranging the class into four equal groups for small group team work in the studio would be useful.
- Find out how to plan your visit, including booking information, parking, facilities and a downloadable risk assessment.
What people are saying about the workshop
"Many thanks – great afternoon for all the children"
Teacher, St Peter’s Catholic Primary, Newall Green
