Lesson 1: Self-Defining Tattoo Design Journal Entry/Sketch
Duration of Days: 2
Lesson Objective
Students will brainstorm and draft a symbolic visual representation of their core values or history to serve as a "self-defining" icon.
If you had to summarize your identity in one image, what would it be? Why is a tattoo often seen as a "permanent" statement of self?
Iconography: The visual images and symbols used in a work of art or the study or interpretation of these. Narrative: A spoken or written account of connected events; a story.
VA:Cr1.1.HS: Use multiple approaches to begin creative endeavors and formulate new creative problems based on personal experience.
Analyzing Symbolism: Identifying how a single object (a "motif") can represent a larger theme in a text or life story.
Description: Conceptualizing and sketching. Purpose: Establishing identity-based intent. DOK Level 3: Strategic Thinking.
Cultural Tattooing: Exploring the deep roots of tattooing in Polynesian (Tatau) or Indigenous cultures as markers of lineage and achievement.
"It has to be something cool that I saw online." Correction: The focus is on self-defining. It must have a personal "root" or story unique to you.
For students struggling with drawing, allow them to write a "Visual Description" list and use symbols/geometric shapes to build the design.
Formative: Check-in to ensure the "why" in the journal matches the "what" in the sketch.
Art journals, pencils, erasers.