the conceptual self portrait, part 3

conceptual art
: an art form in which the artist's intent is to convey a concept rather than to create an art object
self portrait: a portrait of oneself done by oneself

Classroom Discussion about Conceptual Self Portraits:

1. What is a self portrait?

2. Have you ever had a portrait taken of yourself? Where? What were the circumstances?

3. Consider the works of both Cindy Sherman and Liz Rywelski, and their different approaches to their pieces. What approach is more interesting to you?

4. How do these portraits differ from traditional self portraits?

5. How are they the same?

6. If you could assume any identity for a Conceptual Self Portrait, what would it be?



Activity:

Create an alter-ego for yourself and consider how you can express this using clothing, accessories, background, setting, etc.
Choose between taking an actual photograph of yourself, like Sherman and Rywelksi, or drawing the version of yourself using your preferred medium.
Present the work to class and describe all the details that make this portrait of yourself different than who you are every day. Remember you are conveying a concept instead of reality.


Resources:

additional examples of conceptual self portraits
Cindy Sherman
Liz Rywelski