Exploring memory through the world of assemblage
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can create an assemblage artwork that explores memory by selecting and arranging found materials.
Key learning points
- Assemblage involves creating a composition by using found materials. It can be seen as a 3D collage.
- Assembling objects together creates a story which can explore our history.
- By using materials that represent different facets of your life experiences is a form of documentation.
Keywords
Assemblage - everyday objects brought together to create meaning
Found objects - items that are not designed for the purpose of making art, but have been collected from more random sources
Association - a connection we make in our minds between ideas or things, based on something they have in common
Common misconception
Assemblage has to look like a recognisable scene to share meaning with the audience.
Meaning can be represented through objects, textures, and symbols. The way objects are arranged, and their relationships to each other can all convey emotions, experiences, and personality traits. Assemblage is about meaning, not just likeness.
Teacher tip
This lesson is designed about memories of the first day school. You could plan a differernt theme using a wider range of objects if you have access to this. It might be valuable to adapt this lesson to your local context. Task B could be supported using hangers or chairs on table to hang work from.
Equipment
Joining materials: string, wire, pipe cleaners, clips or rubber bands. Objects to use for the assemblage. Paper and drawing materials.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.How do artists use collage in portraiture to explore themes such as identity, emotions, or social histories?
Q2.Collage in portraiture - match the term with the description.
a technique using layered images and symbols to create meaning in art
artwork that represents a person, often exploring identity and emotion
the use of images or objects to represent deeper meanings
two different styles blended in collage to create rich narratives
Q3.What is a found object in art?
Q4.What does assemblage refer to in art?
Q5.Match the method of shaping collage elements with its description.
cutting shapes without a template, allowing for personal expression
cutting around an object’s exact outline for precision
creating uniform shapes or patterns using outlines or stencils
tearing paper in a controlled, deliberate manner
ripping paper freely, without concern for shape, creating jagged edges
Q6.Different visual elements create different visual , even if they are the same size. Artists can use this to help them compose their work to create balance.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is an assemblage in art?
Q2.Assemblage in art - match each term to its correct description.
a 3D artwork made by combining everyday objects or materials
a 2D artwork made by arranging cut-out images or materials
everyday items repurposed as art materials in assemblage
a 3D art form that often involves carving or modeling materials
the use of objects or images to represent deeper meanings
Q3.How does composition affect the meaning of an assemblage?
Q4.Why might an artist choose to place certain found objects in specific locations within an assemblage?
Q5.An assemblage must form a recognisable image to have meaning, and meaning cannot emerge through the arrangement, colours, textures, or relationships between found objects.
Q6.Composition design - match each term with its correct description.
a spiral based on the Fibonacci sequence, guiding the eye
divides the frame into 9 parts, placing focal points on intersections
elements are placed freely, without symmetry or planning
compositions with flat, two-dimensional elements like paintings
compositions using three-dimensional elements like sculptures
To help you plan your 8 art and design lesson on: Exploring memory through the world of assemblage, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 8 art and design lesson on: Exploring memory through the world of assemblage, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 art and design lessons from the Collage and Assemblage: sustainable materials unit, dive into the full secondary art and design curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.