Exploring memory through the world of assemblage
I can create an assemblage artwork that explores memory by selecting and arranging found materials.
Exploring memory through the world of assemblage
I can create an assemblage artwork that explores memory by selecting and arranging found materials.
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Lesson details
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.
To help you plan your year 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 year 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.
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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.
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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Starter quiz
6 Questions
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
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
Exit quiz
6 Questions
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
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