Conveying Meaning Through Art

Exploring Social Issues & Creating Narrative Through Art

**Print this packet when completed**

Using a credible online source (New York Times, Washington Post, or other news publication)
research an article on TWO issues that are important to you.

Suggested Research:
Education
inequity (girls, resources etc)
terrorism
any and all human rights issues
Or any other issue that you feel passionately about

Print and Read the articles.

List 5 main points of the article (write a one sentence each) for article one:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

List 5 main points of the article (write a one sentence each) for article two:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Of these two articles, what issue did you feel the most connected with?

Why is this issue important to you?

Why do you think that this is an important issue that should be explored?

Using sources outlined in previous classes research 4 of the following artists and fill in the chart below.
DO NOT USE GOOGLE!!!!!!! Use artsy or other museum sites.

Artwork Social issue they are What do you infer is What symbols are
commenting on their message? used in artwork?
 What does symbol
stand for?

Kathy Kollwitz
Banksy
Swoon
Keith Haring
Kara Walker
Sue Coe
Robert
Rauschenberg

Your project:

Select the article/issue that you feel most connected and passionate about to create your
artwork. Which article are you choosing?

Before you begin your sketch:

What sort of imagery/symbols do you imagine using in your mixed media painting? Explain how
these images/symbols help to convey your meaning/narrative.

Write what order you will complete these steps. How will you incorporate layering into
your final piece.

What will be painted?

What will be collaged?
What will be transferred?
Do you want to use text (Text should not be used to label your painting but should add to the
overall narrative. You want your imagery to do the talking)?

Research images that will be transferred and/or collaged(you can also use images from
magazines for collaging) into your painting.
Photos/images must be clear (I wont print anything that is blurry)
should be enlarged to the size you want for your painting
you should avoid anything that has a low contrast (bolder photos/images are better!)

Copy and Paste here (I will print these out using the color printer for you prior to next class):

In your sketch book: Sketch two proposed paintings.

Use good composition and effectively conveying your message.
Consider scale and proportion, you want to emphasis your most important symbols while
downplaying your lesser important imagery. (Think about how difference in scale of
imagery can convey meaning on its own.)
 Select a color scheme. Use a limited palette when developing your color scheme and
consider how the use of color can convey meaning (dark colors for sad, bright colors for
happy)