Transform Junior Artists' Self-portraits via Frida Kahlo Into Master Artists!

Funded Nov 25, 2022

Students worked with two major projects this year. One creating a mural inspired by Romare Bearden's, The Block and this project of portraits inspired by Frida Kahlo. Students were excited to use the pastels. Some even stated that they had not seen pastels the color of their skin before. Students began exploring with Expressions pastel colors to create color swatches to match their skin tones. We discussed Frida Kahlo's portraits and how she used color, skin tones, and symbolism. Then, we discussed appreciating their skin for what it is, no judgements. Students then practiced mixing and blending techniques to create their portraits. Over a period of eight weeks, students began and completed this work. They were so elated to work on the project, everyday that I didn't have the class, students asked, "Are we working on the portraits next week? ". This project was truly a motivator and a treat to students. It was integral in keeping them focused til the end of the school-year. The photographs shown are students' outstanding works of the 6th grade class, 607.

We want to thank you dearly for funding this project and we hope to expand and extend this project to more grades next year!

Thank you donors and Disney for your support!

Ms. Hunter, Visual Arts, Class 607 - I.S. 349 School of Math, Science, and Technology.”

With gratitude,

Ms. HUNTER