Printmaking Self-Portraits

The following artworks were created by students ranging from first through fourth grade.

The first week was spent drawing self-portraits from observation. Using a pencil on paper and a mirror, students observed their faces and learned about approaches to drawing portraiture from life. When creating their self-portraits, students were encouraged to incorporate other elements into the composition that described their identity. These pencil sketches were transferred onto styrofoam printing plates by the students. Students then had two days to explore printmaking techniques such as ombre while also learning about color theory. Students were given choices for both ink and paper color, and were asked to consider choices carefully using their understanding of color theory.

Lastly, students used one of their printed editions to create a collaged frame for their self-portrait. This activity allowed for exploration in cutting, texture, layering, and creation of form and composition.