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Cubist Self-Portraits

 cubist portrait.png

Artist Connection: Pablo Picasso

Grades: 3–8

Time Required: 1–2 class periods

Project Type: Individual

Materials:

  • Drawing paper
  • Oil pastels
  • Watercolor
  • Mirrors

Avoid Identical Artwork:
Students should include unique features such as glasses, hairstyles, favorite colors, or hobbies hidden within the design.

Instructions:

  1. Study examples of Cubist portraits.
  2. Step-by-Step Sketching: Have students draw a large oval face and a neck. Instruct them to divide the face and draw one eye facing forward and the other in profile, with a simple triangular nose.
  3. Add Mix-and-Match Elements: Add asymmetrical ears (one high, one low), spiky or stylized hair, and lips from different angles. 
  4. Outline and Color: Students should trace their pencil lines with a thick black marker. Encourage them to fill in the different geometric sections with bold, unconventional colors using watercolors or oil pastels.
  5. Mount on black cardstock.

Display Tip:

 Arrange portraits edge-to-edge to create a collaborative mural.