Images of people are called Portraits. During the month of September students are challenged to create an image or likeness of him or herself, commonly referred to as a Self-Portrait. Rembrandt produced more than seventy self-portraits, making his face one of the most famous in art. Classes discuss and review the ideas of proportion, facial feature placement, size and shape of lines, and appropriate choice of colors. Students will examine, analyze and interpret clues to learn more about the artist and styles of self-portraits.
Beginning every year with Self-Portraits is a lesson I thoroughly enjoy teaching. It’s wonderful observing the improved drawing skills and confidence the children demonstrate. The completed Self-Portraits will be displayed outside the classrooms throughout the month of September and into October. Please take the opportunity to admire these beautiful creations.
As the classes complete their first unit on portraits they will be introduced to the Elements of Art. There are six visual elements, 
color, line, shape, form, space, and texture. These are the foundation upon which artists visually put together to make a statement. Art units and activities will reflect and reinforce these six elements. Students will develop critical thinking skills and evaluate works-of-art through sketchbook activities and discussions. They will explore the meaning of aesthetics and participate in class critiques.
“How important are the visual arts in our society? I feel strongly that the visual arts are of vast and incalculable importance. Of course I could be prejudice. I am visual art."
~Kermit the Frog
Jennifer Burkert
Art Specialist