Lesson Topic and Description:
In this lesson students will study the portraits of the painter T.C. Cannon, examining what they see, what they notice. They will then be presented with the lesson, where they will create a black and white self-portrait from the neck up focusing on proportions. This self-portrait will be combined with a second work that they create, where they examine the view from their window, blocking out large shapes to create a flattened/slightly abstracted artwork. The self-portrait will be placed on top of this second work, creating a final artwork.

ENDURING UNDERSTANDINGS:

• Students will understand that…
• Artists are inspired by the environment in which they live and work.
• Artists’ self-portraits are more than just a physical representation of themselves.
•  Artists can use a variety of techniques in a single work of art.

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:  

•  How does where you live affect your life?
•  When describing yourself, what are some important things to mention?
• Can a work of art be both abstract and realistic at the same time?

STATE STANDARDS ADDRESSED:  

• 5-6.V.Cr.01: Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work.
• 5-6.V.P.05: Develop and refine artistic techniques and work for presentation.
• 5-6.V.R.08: Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work. Describe contrasting interpretations of an artwork to identify multiple perspectives and diverse community ideas.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 

• The students will create a black and white self-portrait from the shoulders up, concentrating on proper proportions
• The students will analyze the view from their window, and use what they see to create color-blocked watercolor (or collage if paper is available) abstracted image that their realistic portrait will be pasted on to. 

FINAL PRODUCT:
The final product will be a black and white self-portrait, with a concentration on proportions. The self-portrait will be cut out and placed on a watercolor, slightly abstracted picture of the view from their window.


​DIFFERENTIATION/ACCOMMODATION:

•  Teacher will present both verbal and written instructions. Include a video demonstration and image slide.
• Teacher will provide visual examples of a self-portrait, creating a sample piece.
•  All students will be encouraged to participate in the class discussion.
• The teacher will demo an example of the blocking out shapes.
•  Final layout and design of drawing is up to students.
• Final artwork is based on the student's personal experience.
• Materials may be adapted based on what students have available.