Self-Portrait in Different Media
To develop self-knowledge, technical art skills, and media comparison through self-portrait in multiple formats.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Expressive Arts & Design
- Learning area: Expressive Arts and Design
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Creates self-portrait with recognisable features
- Works in multiple media
- Compares outcomes across media
- Makes and justifies aesthetic judgements
Materials
- Mirrors for observation
- Drawing materials, paint, and collage materials
- Photographs of children for reference
- Famous self-portrait examples
Instructions
Show examples of artists' self-portraits across history and cultures: Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, Rembrandt, Kehinde Wiley. 'Artists have always painted themselves. Why do you think they do that?'
Begin with close mirror observation: 'Really look at your face. What shape is it — more round or more oval? Where are your eyes in your face — high up or in the middle? Look at the colour of your eyes — what colour exactly?'
Drawing portrait: 'Now draw what you see. Start with the face shape. Then place the features — eyes first, because they go in the middle of the face (many people put them too high!), then nose, then mouth, then ears, then hair.'
Collage portrait: provide torn paper pieces, fabric, and found materials. 'Can you make a portrait of yourself from these pieces? What will you use for hair? Eyes? Skin?' The medium forces different decisions.
Paint portrait: mix skin tones: 'Your skin tone is unique. Let's mix to try to match it. Start with white, add tiny amounts of red, yellow, brown...' This is sensitive, careful colour work.
Display all three media self-portraits together and compare: 'How are they similar? How are they different? Which do you think looks most like you? Which do you prefer as artwork? Why?' Comparative aesthetic analysis.