Digital Portrait Collage: Sub Plan or Mini Unit

This lesson is designed to be easy and straightforward enough so that a sub can deliver with great results, or to make an art teacher shine! Students are encouraged to use the digital platform they are comfortable with to create an expressive digital self-portrait.

Inspired by contemporary artist Marcelo Monreal, students will create a layered digital self-portrait using organic and geometric elements to highlight what makes them unique.

Students reflect on guiding questions such as “What do you find most interesting about yourself?” and “What is your definition of beauty?” while looking basic digital collage techniques like overlay, splicing, and layering. The resource includes clear requirements, examples, differentiation ideas (including a Cubism-inspired extension), and student-friendly directions. It can be completed as quickly as one lesson, or stretched to be as long as 3 or 4.