This advanced studio course focuses on self-portraiture as a form of artistic expression, identity exploration, and visual storytelling. Working primarily through photography, students will move beyond casual “selfies” to create intentional, concept-driven self-portraits that reflect personal perspective and creative vision.
Enrollment is limited to 10 students. This is not a beginner camera class—students should have some prior experience or be prepared to engage in independent learning to build technical skills. Instruction in lighting, composition, and the use of light modifiers will be provided, along with ongoing critique and support.
Each week, students will study influential self-portrait artists across disciplines, building an understanding of artistic language, process, and intent. In class, students will plan and produce self-portraits, experimenting with concept, setting, lighting, and symbolism to develop meaningful work.
Grounded in Self-Awareness and Identity, Advanced Visual Arts, and Understanding Self as Learner, students will:
Explore identity through visual storytelling, creating self-portraits that reflect personal experience, perspective, and intention.
Develop advanced artistic skills in composition, lighting, and concept development, while learning to speak about their work and process with clarity.
Build a consistent creative practice, including maintaining a sketchbook, generating ideas, and producing work both in and out of class.
Engage in critique and collaboration, offering and receiving feedback and supporting peers in realizing their creative visions.
Reflect on their growth as artists and learners, identifying strengths, challenges, and areas for continued development.
Students will work toward attainments such as articulating identity through their work, applying artistic techniques with intention, sustaining an independent creative process, and refining work through revision and feedback.
By the end of the block, each student will produce a cohesive collection of self-portraits, accompanied by a written artist and project statement. The course will culminate in a showcase of student work.
Cell Phone Policy:
Students may use their cell phones during class as a tool to engage in learning relevant to the class.
Students may use their cell phones during class as a tool to engage in learning relevant to the class.