Statement of Inquiry:

Our identities can be expressed through a combination of personal experiences, choices, and perceptions, which can be represented creatively through art and reflection.

Related Concept:

Identity and Expression

Global Context:

Personal and Cultural Expression

Brief:

Students will explore the theme of “self-identity” by creating a self-portrait inspired by the works of Giuseppe Arcimboldo, an Italian Renaissance artist known for his imaginative portraits composed of various objects. In this activity, they will use foods and other objects that represent themselves (such as favorite fruits, vegetables, or items that are significant to their identity) to create a self-portrait collage, symbolizing both their unique personal identity and healthy eating.

1. Step 1: Introduction to Giuseppe Arcimboldo
   • Discuss Arcimboldo’s art and how he used natural elements like fruits, vegetables, flowers, and fish to create portraits. Explain how each object represents different parts of a person’s personality or identity.
   • Show examples of his work such as “The Gardener” and “Summer.”
2. Step 2: Discussion on Identity and Healthy Eating
   • Engage the students in a conversation about how food and health are connected to identity. How do our food choices reflect who we are? Discuss the concept of healthy eating, and how we can express our identity through the food we eat.
3. Step 3: Art Creation – Self-Portrait Collage
   • Ask students to choose different foods and items that they feel represent them (e.g., fruits, vegetables, hobbies, cultural symbols) and create a self-portrait in the style of Arcimboldo.
   • Students can either draw, paint, or use collage techniques to create their self-portrait.
4. Step 4: Reflection
   • Once the portraits are finished, have a group discussion or written reflection on the process. Ask students to explain why they chose the items they did and what these items symbolize about their identity.
   • Discuss how healthy eating and food choices play a role in how they view themselves and their culture.

Inspiration:

• Giuseppe Arcimboldo’s Artworks:
  • The Louvre Museum has a collection of Arcimboldo’s works. Check out “The Four Seasons” and “The Librarian” for examples of how objects can form a recognizable figure.
  • Arcimboldo’s Art at The Louvre (online resources and galleries)
• Healthy Eating and Identity:
  • Look into how different cultures view food as part of personal and collective identity. Explore resources such as The Mediterranean Diet and Eating for Identity for a broader discussion.
• Educational Videos and Tutorials:
  • Watch a video about Arcimboldo’s style and technique on YouTube. Many channels provide detailed explanations of his artworks and their connection to identity.
  • You can also show a time-lapse video of creating a collage self-portrait to help guide students on techniques.

Outcome:

Through this lesson, students will connect visual art with personal reflection, exploring the theme of self-identity while learning about the importance of healthy eating. By creating a self-portrait inspired by Arcimboldo, they will not only understand his artistic technique but also develop a deeper understanding of how food and personal choices shape identity.