Marium Rana
Lichtenstein Inspired Self-Portrait
Discipline: Visual arts
Grade Levels: 6-8
Number of sequential sessions in lesson plan: 3
Curriculum Summary
In this lesson, students will be introduced to artist Roy Lichtenstein. Lichtenstein was considered the father of Pop Art through his flat, graphic paintings of sequential art. Students can draw comparisons to the art with which they are familiar, and they may see the 1960s influence of pop culture that is around now. In order to have this understanding, the teacher will use the first day of this lesson to introduce Lichtenstein through a video and images of the artist’s work.
Another important part of this lesson is the demonstration by the instructor. Students will use a printed photograph of themselves to copy and recreate in the style of Lichtenstein. For every step of this lesson, an example should be present. When the photograph is being recreated with quadrants, using a ruler, the students should be able to see this step before the finished result. If the instructor chooses to have students trace their work, a demonstration of tracing should be made available.
The skills acquired in this lesson will be using an unconventional art tool for a desired effect, like Q-tips dipped in paint to make Ben-Day dots (polka dots) on top of the portrait. Another skill will be introspection using a self portrait and expressing one’s self with a single word bubble and statement therein. The main elements of art depicted in this lesson are pattern, line, and color. The use of Ben-Day dots relates to a polka dot pattern used in early mass colored printing. The pattern of dots allows students to create a desired balance or imbalance in their composition. The variety of line thickness shows emphasis. Colors are bold and solid.
Oklahoma Academic Standards Addressed
VA.P.3 Demonstrate appropriate skill level in the application of knowledge, techniques, skills, and concepts through the creation of original artworks.
8.VA.P.3.1 Demonstrate willingness to experiment, innovate, and take risks to pursue ideas, forms, and meanings that emerge in the process of art making on design.
VA.CP.2 Practice and refine techniques and skills related to visual arts.
6.VA.CP.2.1 Experiment and practice skills in multiple art-making techniques, methods, and approaches.