Portraits and figures in Fine Art
I can review the range of ways artists have been inspired by portraits and figures in art.
- Year 10
Portraits and figures in Fine Art
I can review the range of ways artists have been inspired by portraits and figures in art.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Portraits can show a person’s identity, including culture, gender, age, social status and background
- Portraits can tell stories about people’s lives and experiences, suggesting relationships, emotions or history
- Artists often use their work to share views on society, culture, or important issues.
- Portraits can go beyond what someone looks like; they can show who they are and what they stand for.
Keywords
Subject - the focus, topic or image of an artwork e.g. in a portrait the subject is the person who has been painted
Narrative - the story or message that an artwork communicates about the subject
Symbolism - the use of objects, colours, or imagery to suggest deeper meanings
Common misconception
Portraits are just about what someone looks like - they’re mainly about getting the likeness right.
While capturing someone’s physical appearance can be part of a portrait, artists often go much deeper. Portraits can reveal who someone is, exploring culture, identity, relationships, life experiences and even social or political themes.
Equipment
Access to the internet or a library of art books. Sketchbook or paper for recording ideas, pencils, pens.
Licence
Lesson video
Loading...
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What does "facial proportion" describe in portraiture?
Q2.A portrait is a work of art that focuses on a , often showing their face and personality.
Q3.Match the keyword to its correct meaning.
