Portraits

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The following has been designed to give you information in advance of your visit to Manchester Art Gallery so that you can get the most out of your morning or afternoon activity session.

Aims:

Mask of the Tailight Warrior (detail) by David Kemp, 1960

  • To make the pupils visit to MAG an enjoyable and memorable experience
  • To introduce and welcome young visitors to the collection of portraits within the gallery collection
  • To discover the different techniques employed by the artists to explore portraits
  • To expand pupils vocabulary by describing artworks whilst considering interpretation

What happens in a session:

  • The tour will be lad by an artist or trained facilitator who will stay with the group throughout
  • Pupils will learn how to use the gallery as a learning resource and will become familiar with a number of portraiture-based works
  • Pupils will discuss the use of portraits throughout different time periods
  • Each pupil will complete throughout the gallery section a worksheet of ideas and observations
  • Concepts will be extended further in a practical studio session. Activities include the creation of 3d portraits using everyday objects and a 2d portrait using mixed media techniques.

Preparation:

  • Before you visit discuss the value of experiencing ‘real’ paintings through a gallery visit, rather than reproductions
  • In the classroom, discuss the different types of portraits pupils have experienced at home, school and within galleries. Encourage discussion by addressing differences in styles, shape and scale.
  • Collect images of different portraits – reproductions, photographs, newspaper and magazine images
  • Explain why pupils are not allowed to touch, eat or drink at Manchester Art Gallery (i.e. for protection and conservation work)

Follow up:

  • To continue the ideas of everyday objects as a resource for further experimentation and production of artworks
  • Create further portraits incorporating techniques and methods experienced through the gallery visit
  • Use the materials collected to produce studies/painting/ICT related artworks back in the classroom

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