Pastel Self-Portraits

A favourite activity of ours to do each September is encourage the children to draw self-portraits. We have been discussing how each child is our class is special and unique and a wonderful part of our community of learners. We have also been reading books about how we are similar and different as individuals. Emphasizing our names and learning about one another's interests and abilities has been a great way to grow our relationships and gel our class. 

Mirrors, a variety of pastels, and drawing papers were available for the children to explore and use. Hand held mirrors could be used for close up observation and the large mirrors on stands reflected light and provided a hands-free way for the children to observe as they drew.

The results were beautiful and are on display in our quiet corner. We are hoping to encourage the children to revisit this activity in a few weeks in order to see their growth and development in observation and drawing interests and abilities and compare self-portraits (from old to new)!

Each one unique, each one beautiful!

Self-Portraits

"Art has the power to transform, to illuminate, to educate, inspire, and motivate."

In our classroom we love using the power of observation and the language of art to share our ideas with others. This week we encouraged the children to visit the art area in order to paint a self-portrait to hang over their cubbies. We placed a large mirror at the table along with a variety of paint brushes and acrylics. Some children drew a pencil sketch on the canvas first and then painted over while others painted freely.

The children's attention to detail was inspiring; they noticed the shade of their skin, shape of their face, length of their hair, and even what expression they should be wearing in the painting.

They took their time studying the uniqueness of their reflection and representing their individuality and personality in the self-portrait. It was interesting to watch the artist work; behind him or her were a few admirers watching the process and waiting patiently for their turn to paint. The conversations were low and focused as the artist's work was admired and decisions were made as to which colours they would be using for their piece.

The paintings were hung over each cubby along with a new, framed photo of each child.

 

We hoped to honour each child's individuality and spirit through the use of photography and paint. We think the results are simply stunning! Check out this new display next time you visit our room!

Self Portraits

Today we read the big book " In The Mirror" during shared reading time. 

We thought it would be interesting to set up an art provocation for the children and ask them to consider what they saw in their mirror.  

The children were very eager to participate and took some time examining their reflections. This lead to some great conversations about facial features and expressions. 

The children had to carefully select the pastels that best represented their interpretation of what they observed. 

Their attention to detail and enthusiasm for the task were inspiring!

We can't wait to see what other portraits are drawn at this centre for the rest of the week!