Lesson 23: Abstract Self-Portrait

Objective: To have the children create an abstract self-portrait with distortion and expressive qualities.

Vocabulary:

abstract - Art that does not look realistic in which the details of the real objects are simplified, distorted, or rearranged.

distortion - A technique used to change the way a subject looks, by bending, stretching, or twisting its shape.

expressive qualities - Characteristics of art elements that make the elements affect the viewer's feelings. Lines, shapes, colors, and forms all have expressive qualities.

Clown by Juan Gris

Abstract Portraits

An artwork that shows something exactly as it looks in real life is representational or realistic art. Abstract art is not realistic. The painting Clown by Juan Gris is an abstract portrait. Find the subject's eyes, nose, mouth, and hands. What shapes and colors did the artist use to paint these features? Does the painting have symmetrical or asymmetrical balance?

Untitled by Taylor

Distortion can be seen in many abstract artworks. When artists use distortion, they change the way an object looks by bending or stretching its shape. Look at the abstract painting Untitled by Taylor. Where has the artist used distortion.

Think Critically - Tell what you have learned.

Studio Time: Abstract Self-Portrait

Materials:

Sketchbooks, Pencils, White Paper, Tempera Paints, Paintbrushes, Water bowls

Plan

Sketch a self-portrait. Think about how you can add distortion by changing the shapes of your facial features.
Check list:
- Create an abstract self-portrait using distortion.
- Use expressive qualities to show your feelings.

Create

Copy your sketch onto white paper.

2. Use geometric shapes for the parts of your face. Erase parts of your sketch, and change or break up the shapes to create distortion.
3. Add different kinds of lines to the background to show your feelings.
4. Paint your self-portrait.

Reflect - Tell about your artwork.

Photograph and Submit your work on Google Classroom.

Photograph sketches as well as completed artwork.
"Add" (attach) to Google Classroom assignment.
"Mark as done" to submit your work for a grade.

Challenge: 3D Portrait

Create an abstract portrait with a 3D head shape and add facial features on different shapes, mount to base and paint background for other features.

Page updated

Report abuse