The way an artist represents themselves or others through art.

When an artist hides or obscures parts of their identity, maybe through using abstraction, symbolism, or selective representation.

When an artist intentionally shares aspects of identity, history, or emotions through choices in their work.

The use of objects, colours, or imagery in art to represent deeper meanings or ideas beyond their literal appearance.

Curating identity: choosing what to show in art

Art and design

Mapping identity

Identity, art and  self-expression

Personal to universal: art as connection

Gender and sexuality in art

Religion and belief in art

This unit explores personal identity in art through self-expression, mapping, storytelling, and the interplay between personal and universal themes. Pupils will engage with a variety of art forms while considering how identity is shaped and communicated.

Personal identity

True or false: Artists must always show their whole identity in their artwork.

Uses everyday objects to explore displacement and identity.

Creates large-scale, powerful portraits of Black women.

Uses photography and film to explore identity through abstract light.

Match each artist to how they express identity in their work.

Identity can change based on life experiences, culture, and personal growth.

Identity is only shaped by family background.

Identity is fixed and cannot be influenced by new experiences.

Identity is shaped by experiences, culture, and personal growth.

Helps people connect, relate, and understand different perspectives.

They can reveal or conceal aspects of their identity.

Match each statement about identity in art to the correct explanation.

How an artist represents themselves or others

True, artists can use work to express their personal experiences and culture.

False, artists never use work to express their personal experiences and culture.

An artist can use art to express their personal experiences and culture.

A painting or drawing an artist makes of themselves

True or false: All people from the same culture or country have the same identity.

How can artists express ideas in an abstract ways without using words?

True or false: Artists always reveal everything about themselves in their artwork.

Starter Quiz

What does identity mean in art?