AQA
A-Level Art, Introductory Summer Project:
Portrait and Identity
In preparation for your A-Level Art course, you are asked to make a start on some artwork
that will lead into the first project. Any artwork that you produce during your summer break
may be used to contribute to your portfolio for assessment at the end of Term 1.
Introduction
Artists have explored portraiture (including self-portraiture) and themes of identity through
very varied means and media. You might consider the work of Francis Bacon, Van Gogh,
Tracy Emin, Marc Quinn, Egon Schiele, Frank Auerbach, Cindy Sherman, Grayson Perry,
Chuck Close, Nan Goldin, Frida Kahlo, Julian Opie, Louise Bougeouis, Kathe Kolllwitz,
Gerhardt Richter, Jenny Saville, Rembrandt, Lucian Freud, Andy Warhol, Gilbert and
George, Arnulf Rainer etc.
You are asked to start considering different ways in which you might make portraits or
artworks that communicate ideas about identity.
I suggest that you purchase an A4 or A3 hardback sketchbook to start collating your artwork,
ideas and research.
What you have to do
Task 1:
Produce at least 3 portraits or self-portraits. Include:

An objective drawing or painting depicting the face, the body, part of the face, or part
of the body. The choice of composition, media, use of colour and techniques etc may
also say something about the person.

A still life drawing or painting of a selection of carefully chosen objects that represents
the person or an aspect of the person’s personality/identity. Think about how choice
of media and technique may also say something about the person.

A collage that represents the person. Consider what is communicated by the specific
choice of materials, images, text etc. This piece may be figurative (it looks like the
person to some degree) or non-figurative (abstract – not attempting to visually
represent what the person looks like).
Briefly outline your ideas and approaches in your sketchbook and evaluate the success of
each piece.
Task 2:
Research 3 or more artists who make portraits or self-portraits. Ideally choose artists who
work in contrasting ways and where possible choose artists that link with your own artwork.
Please bring your work in to the first timetabled session for A-level Art. We look forward to
seeing your ideas!