Cubist Face Sketching

Lesson Overview

In Lesson 3 of the "Cubist Mask Creations" unit, students will explore the distinctive features of Cubist art by breaking down facial characteristics into geometric shapes. This lesson aims to enhance their observational skills, understanding of perspective, and creativity through sketching.

Duration

45 minutes

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

• Analyse and identify key elements of Cubist representation in faces.
• Create preliminary sketches using geometric shapes.
• Demonstrate the ability to represent different perspectives in their sketches.

Curriculum Framework Alignment

This lesson aligns with the following UK National Curriculum objectives for Art and Design (Key Stage 2):

• Develop creativity and imagination through experimentation with a variety of materials, techniques, and processes (Art and Design Programme of Study).
• Understand the historical and contextual significance of different art movements, specifically Cubism.

---

Materials Needed

• A4 sketch paper (one sheet per student)
• Pencils (HB for sketching)
• Rulers
• Erasers
• Reference images of Cubist artwork (e.g., works by Pablo Picasso)
• Visual aids to demonstrate geometric shapes (e.g., handouts or a PowerPoint presentation)

---

Lesson Structure

Introduction (10 minutes)

1. Hook Activity: Show a selection of Cubist artworks and lead a brief discussion on what makes them distinct. Ask students for their initial thoughts and feelings about the art style.
2. Definition and Discussion: Define Cubism and its key features (geometric shapes, different perspectives, abstraction) with examples. Use visuals to illustrate how faces can be represented differently in Cubist style.

Main Activity (30 minutes)

1. Demonstration (5 minutes):

   • Using a whiteboard, sketch a simple face and progressively break it down into geometric shapes (triangles, rectangles, circles). Discuss the choices made (e.g., why certain shapes represent certain features).

2. Guided Practice (10 minutes):

   • Distribute the A4 sketch paper and let students select a face reference or encourage them to use their own. Instruct them to sketch their chosen face but with an emphasis on forming the features using geometric shapes. Encourage them to include different perspectives; for example, drawing one eye front-facing while the other is sideways.

3. Independent Practice (15 minutes):

   • Allow students to work independently on their sketches while circulating around the room to provide guidance and feedback. Prompt them to experiment with rearranging features and perspectives as they work.

Conclusion (5 minutes)

1. Reflection and Sharing: Have students share their sketches with a partner and discuss their artistic choices and challenges faced while working.
2. Wrap-Up Discussion: Bring the class back together and ask a few students to share their sketches. Encourage classmates to provide positive feedback focusing on the use of geometric shapes and perspectives.

---

Differentiation Strategies

• Support for Struggling Students: Provide templates with geometric shapes for students who may need extra guidance or confidence.
• Extension Activities: Encourage advanced students to explore colour and mixed media, layering materials to create depth in their Cubist sketches.

---

Assessment

• Formative Assessment: Teachers will observe students throughout the lesson, providing verbal feedback on their understanding of Cubist principles and their application during the sketching process.
• End of Lesson Self-Assessment: Students will reflect on their work by writing a few sentences about what they learned and what they found challenging.

---

Resources for Further Exploration

• Offer a brief list of artists and art movements related to Cubism for students to explore in future lessons or independent study.

---

This lesson plan incorporates creativity with structured guidance, ensuring students not only engage with Cubist principles but also unlock their own artistic potential through inquiry and expression.