Creating Identity Using Nature Symbolism
About this learning resource
Format: PDF
Portrait artists of the Tudor era used nature symbolism as a form of coded language between sitter and viewer to promote a specific public image. This lesson pack examines the difference between public image and private identity. Students decode public image in Tudor-era portraits. They explore, through self-portraiture incorporating nature symbols, their personal sense of self and how that supports self esteem. They also explore how and why people may present a public image that is very different from their private identity.
National Curriculum links
- About the history of art, craft, design and architecture, including periods, styles and major movements from ancient times up to the present day
- To analyse and evaluate their own work, and that of others, in order to strengthen the visual impact or applications of their work
- The impact that media and social media can have on how people think about themselves and express themselves, including regarding body image, physical and mental health
Learning objectives
- Explore the difference between Image (public) and Identity (private)
- Describe how Nature symbols have been used by Tudor artists to convey public and private messages about the sitters
- Make comparisons between symbolism in Tudor portraits and today’s celebrity images on the internet and social media
Resource Information
Key Stage
- KS3 (age 11-14)
Subjects
- Art & Design
- History of Art
- PSHE
Topic
- Tudors
Type
- Lesson ideas
Palace
- Tower of London
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