CALDER CONTOUR SELF PORTRAITS

Calder Contour Self Portraits

Learning Targets

I can...

• Create a Contour Self Portrait using techniques learning in class
• Use gestural lines (smooth, jagged, curved), shape variation (geometric, organic, free form), and color schemes (complimentary, secondary, primary) inspired by American Sculptor (1976-1998) Alexander Calder 
• Use observational skills (value scale, proportion, illusion of depth) and design principles (contrast, harmony, movement) relating to Abstract Expressionism 
• Define Portrait (a picture depicting the face, head, and shoulder)

Lesson One

Day One, Art Start

1. Abstract Expressionists (1) Alexander Calder, (2) Elizabeth Berrien, and (3) Gavin Worth

2.  Read Sandy's Circus by Tanya Lee Stone
3. Discussion Questions "Do you think line is the most important element? Why or why not? What is the difference between contour line, continuous contour line, and blind contour line? What happens when you turn an artwork around to view it from a different angle? What do you notice about Alexander Calder's Self Portraits?"

Lesson Activities

1. Choose 9" by 12" Drawing Paper
2. Use mechanic pencils to draw face, head, and shoulder of oneself
3. Use black sharpie marker to outline face, head, and shoulder of Contour Self Portraits

Reminder:

• Initials & Home Teacher on Back of Paper

Day Two, Art Start

1. Retrieve Contour Self Portrait for Assigned Table
2. Read Alexander Calder by PBS American Masters 
3.  Reflective Discussion "Calder, known to his friends as "Sandy", was a man who invented mobiles, stables, and wire portraits. As a child, Calder loved the circus and was impressed by their ability to balance on thin wires up in the air. What do you think of his work? Does it remind you of anything you have seen before?? Have you been to the circus? Do you think Calder captures the magic of a circus performance?"

Lesson Activities

1.  Use printed portrait to outline the face, head, and shoulder with black wire
2. Use multicolored wire to add facial features (eyebrows, hair, jewelry) to self portraits
3. Use hot glue to attach face, head, shoulder, and facial features to a cardboard base

Day Three, Art Start

1. Retrieve Contour Line Portrait for Assigned Table
2. Set Up Studio Area (black wires, wire cutters, cardboard base)

Lesson Activities

1. Use hot glue to finish attaching face, head, and shoulder to cardboard base
2. Use black paint to cover facial features (eyebrows, hair, jewelry) of self portraits
3. Use black paint to cover the cardboard base of the Contour Line Portraits

Teacher Demonstration Examples

Artist Examples 

Student Examples