Unit 4: Mini Sustained Investigation

Unit Description: In the "Exploring Identity: Building a Mini Sustained Investigation in Visual Art" unit, high school artists will embark on a creative journey to explore the theme of identity through a sustained investigation. This unit is designed to guide students through the process of developing a cohesive body of artwork that explores different facets of their personal identity. Through research, experimentation, artistic techniques, and critical analysis, students will gain insights into their own identity while honing their artistic skills.

Unit Objectives: By the end of this unit, students will be able to:

• Understand the concept of a sustained investigation in art.

• Analyze various aspects of personal identity for artistic exploration.

• Apply artistic techniques to create a cohesive body of artwork.

• Develop critical thinking skills in analyzing and reflecting on their work.

• Present and communicate their sustained investigation to an audience.

Key Concepts:

• Identity: Exploring and expressing different aspects of personal identity through art.

• Cohesive Body of Work: Creating a series of artworks that are thematically connected.

Assessment: Assessment in this unit will focus on:

• Depth of research and analysis in exploring different facets of identity.

• Completion of a cohesive body of artwork that demonstrates artistic growth.

• Application of artistic techniques to convey ideas and emotions.

• Critical analysis and reflection on the development of their sustained investigation.

Week-by-Week Breakdown:

Week 1-2: Introduction to Sustained Investigation

• Understanding the concept of a sustained investigation in visual art.

• Introduction to the theme of identity and its relevance to art.

• Exploration of artists who have used sustained investigations in their work.

Week 3-4: Research and Concept Development

• In-depth research on various aspects of personal identity (cultural, gender, experiences, etc.).

• Developing a concept or theme for the sustained investigation.

• Sketching and planning potential artworks.

Week 5-6: Artistic Techniques and Experimentation

• Introduction to artistic techniques suitable for the chosen theme.

• Hands-on experimentation with materials and techniques.

• Creation of initial artworks that explore different approaches.

Week 7-8: Refinement and Presentation

• Selecting artworks that best represent the theme and concept.

• Refining techniques and making necessary adjustments.

• Developing a presentation that communicates the sustained investigation.

Culminating Activity: Sustained Investigation Showcase The unit culminates in a Sustained Investigation Showcase where students present their cohesive body of artwork to peers, families, and educators. This showcase provides an opportunity for students to share their artistic growth and exploration of personal identity.

Integration with Artistic Principles:

• Theme and Variation: The unit aligns with the artistic principle of developing a theme and exploring it through variation in multiple artworks.

• Visual Communication: Discussions about presenting the sustained investigation encourage students to refine their skills in effectively communicating their artistic concepts.

Through this unit, students will not only deepen their understanding of the sustained investigation process but also gain insights into their own identity and how it can be creatively expressed through visual art.

Unit 4: Mini Sustained Investigation

As a culminating end to their journey through Intro to Art, students will choose their own self-study project. Students will create three works of art that visually tie together under 1 theme that interests the student.