The Big Idea:

How have rule-breaking artists changed how we make and view art today?

Activity Overview

Are there rules for art? For people who think art has to be 'a picture of something,' modern art can be very confusing. The primary motivation of many artists is to do something very different from what has come before. In this activity you will create a series of self-portraits that break the rules.

Look closely

Click on each artist button at right to view detailed screens about the artist and his or her works. Be sure to click on all images, view all videos, read all documents, and use the zoom tool to look closely at the works of art.

In this activity you will:

1. brainstorm on traditional art rules
2. create a series of self-portraits
3. express your thoughts in writing about one of them
4. critique your peers' self-portraits
5. reflect on what you've learned about yourself

You will be graded on:

1. quality, craft, and attention to detail in your artworks
2. creativity in applying new techniques and experimental methods
3. participation in the critique of your peers' work
4. clear use of language in your artist's statement
5. written reflection

New terms:

nontraditional media, found materials