Portraits and Identity

Investigate relationships between people and objects through a range of artworks in our permanent collection and special exhibitions. Students use critical studies to inform analysis and photography and drawing techniques to document observations.

Aims (Skills, Knowledge, Activity, Result)

  • Young boy creating artworks with coloured tapeTo broaden understanding of ways artists make portraits 
  • To develop ideas by making notes, drawings and photographs
  • To discuss how objects, symbols, gesture, composition etc are used
  • To return to school with a variety of starting points and ideas for work

What students are saying about the session

“Tape pictures was so much fun. The day went quickly. When I leave I’m going to continue thinking along the lines of identity.”

Skipton High School pupil.

What happens in a session:

We start by looking at a traditional 18th Century portrait discussing gesture, costume, sense of time and place etc.

Each student produces a mind map using written and visual notes to explore their personal identity.

We view a contemporary painting, focusing on the use of objects as symbols. Pupils make links with their own sense of identity, considering which objects represent their personality. They produce a large line drawing, working directly on paper with coloured tapes.

In the Gallery of Craft and Design, students use objects and images to further discuss symbolism, gesture, colour and mood. They consider composition when planning and making a self-portrait Polaroid photograph.

Students are encouraged to explore ideas for their own work and feel confident using the gallery for independent research

Preparation:

  • Introduce pupils to the theme of portraits and discuss a variety of images.
  • Discuss with pupils the value of using real art works as inspiration and how this experience might differ from looking at reproductions.
  • Encourage pupils to gain a sense of their own identity and consider how this might inform a self-portrait.

For more information including booking, parking facilities and a downloadable risk assessment, please go to plan your visit.

NC RELATED THEMES

Art, Craft and Design

Pupils will observe, engage with and respond to a variety of art and craft works. They will record ideas through drawing and photography. Their research will provide a strong foundation for further independent work.

Science

Pupils will make use of Polaroid cameras and could develop this to investigate a range of photographic techniques.

RE

By considering their own identity, pupils will develop empathy and an understanding of the impact culture has on our sense of self.

Music

Young people often identify themselves with a particular group, depending on their musical taste. This aspect of their identity could be further explored within self-portraiture.