The Memory Project
The Memory Project
The Memory Project Summary
Service learning, art and world cultures. Linking art students with orphans from around the world and giving the gift of art in the form of a personal portrait.
Link to The Memory Project
Click on the link above for full information about The Memory Project and to sign up to be connected with orphans from around the world.
Procedure / Studio Habits of Mind
Understand the Art World
Discussion topics:
What does it mean to be an orphan?
How does being an orphan differ across the globe?
What is empathy?
How can artists make a difference?
What is service learning?
Show students the videos and portraits created on the Memory project website.
Develop Craft
Students should have some basic understanding of portraiture and/or grid drawing.
This is a great Wiki on how to draw using the grid method. It includes step by step instructions and video demonstration.
How to Draw Using the Grid Method
Students can practice grid drawing with the following worksheet.
Observe
Each student is given or chooses a portrait of an orphan child. Using the grid method practiced above, students draw portrait of the orphan in pencil.
Stretch and Explore
Students may choose a final medium for which to complete their portrait. Encourage students to explore multiple media. Show examples of artist portraits.
Express
How does the chosen media(s) help to demonstrate the expression of the child in the photo?
Does the expression of the child come through in the portrait?
Where do you see evidence of the artist hand in the expression?
Reflect
Have students write a letter to be delivered to the orphans with the finished portrait. In this letter, students should express what it meant to them to create the portrait as well as provide basic information about themselves.
Critique Time!
Hang work and have students do a preliminary gallery walk. Give them time to write down some observations and questions they have about the portraits in the gallery.
Students will present their portraits and read their letters to the class.
Class discussion will include observations and questions about the work.
Culminating Experience
After students send off their portraits, they will receive photos and sometimes letters back from the orphans. Take the time to look over these photos and discuss what the project meant to the students.
How did it change their view of the world?
How have they grown as artists through this project?