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      Portraits and figures in 3D Design

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can review the range of ways artists create portraits and figures three dimensionally.

      Key learning points

      1. Sculptures allow for a physical interaction with the art, enabling viewers to appreciate the texture, scale and form.
      2. Artists can manipulate scale and perspective to explore how figures relate to their surroundings and to the viewer.
      3. Artists use figures to explore identity, race, gender, culture, challenging stereotypes and expanding representation.

      Keywords

      • Monument - a large sculpture or structure built to remember a person or event

      • Figurative - an artwork that clearly represents recognisable human or animal forms

      Common misconception

      All sculptures of people are just made to look realistic or beautiful.

      Artists often use figures to tell stories, express ideas, or explore identity, emotions, or social issues. A figure might be exaggerated, abstract, or symbolic to make people think or feel something.

      Teacher tip

      Greater contextual information on the artists' work can be found in the additional materials. You may wish to alter the imagery to better fit your project themes.

      Equipment

      Access to the internet or a library of art books. Sketchbook or paper for recording ideas, pencils, pens.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What does "scale" in sculpture usually refer to?

      The artwork’s colour
      The material used
      Correct answer: The size of the sculpture
      The texture of the surface

      Q2.
      A sculpture is a type of art that is , meaning it has height, width, and depth.

      Correct Answer: three-dimensional, 3D, three dimensional, 3-D

      Q3.
      Which tool is commonly used in wood carving?

      Correct answer: Chisel
      Palette knife
      Spray gun
      Tweezers

      Q4.
      Match the term to its meaning:

      Correct Answer:Sculpture,Art that is 3D or in relief

      Art that is 3D or in relief

      Correct Answer:Public art ,Art created in open spaces

      Art created in open spaces

      Correct Answer:Portraits ,Artistic images of people

      Artistic images of people

      Q5.
      A portrait is usually an artistic recording of a person's and shoulders.

      Correct Answer: head, face

      Q6.
      What does the term "public art" mean?

      Art in museums
      Correct answer: Art in open public spaces
      Art owned by a celebrity
      Art you make at home

      To help you plan your 10 art and design lesson on: Portraits and figures in 3D Design, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...