What Shapes Us?
Exploring Identity & Community Through an
Embellished Cyanotype Self Portrait Mural
A 7th Grade 6 Day Art Lesson
Central Focus (Big Idea): Identity
My Identity Teacher Example
By combining the cyanotype process, using the environment (sunlight) to create silhouette self portraits and found materials from their visual culture, family heritage and local environment, students will learn that art can be used to express their identities and values, which are partially shaped by the world around them, and they have a connection to others within their community and throughout the world.
Social Issues / Concepts of the Lesson:
The social issue in this lesson deals with how the environment, specifically our visual culture, family heritage and physical environment shapes our identities and values. It also concerns how although unique, there are commonalities that exist throughout our communities and beyond. Students will reflect on their personal experiences and research into their history to connect with their values, beliefs, ideas and to those of others in their class.
Essential Questions:
• What is identity?
• Why do we create self-portraits?
• How can we create portraits that are universal?
• How can we use symbolism to represent our identity?
• How does visual culture, environment and heritage shape our identity?
• How can we use silhouettes and symbolism with cyanotype and embellishment to portray identity to communicate a unique and universal narrative that promotes a sense of community?
DAY ONE POWERPOINT PRESENTATION:
DAY TWO POWERPOINT PRESENTATION:
FULL LESSON PLAN:
TEACHING PHOTOS:
