Assemble a Portrait

Select materials to represent your subject in a collage. Consider which materials are readily available and which ones will be easiest to manipulate

Lightly sketch your design in pencil on a large sheet of paper or canvas. Use simple shapes.

Begin assembling your collage.

You might try juxtaposing materials with contrasting patterns . . .

textures . . .

and/or colors.

Eunice layers cut images to create texture.

How does Clara L. use symbols?

Why might Clara O. incorporate pages of a book to illustrate this fictional character?

Trace a CD on paper several times. On each traced circle, make a sketch to develop your design.

Think about the materials you will incorporate in your design. Include notes about these materials in your sketches.

Begin making your favorite design on an old CD.

To add color, you might use paint . . .

. . . or paint pens.

Attach your materials to the CD with glue.

Take risks and have fun with your materials!

Remember to use materials that help express your message.

When you’re happy with your design, share it with classmates.

Write an artist statement. Discuss how you used upcycled materials to express your message.

This student uses ordinary materials, like cotton and a patch.

How do Kesla’s materials support her message?

What do you think this design conveys?

Now it’s your turn! How will you use what you’ve learned about materials to create an expressive work with a message?