Who Do You Think You Are?
A workshop on self-concept, interpersonal awareness, active listening, research methodology, and the creative process.
Supplies: Any available. Paper, pencils, and pens are required. Stamps, collage materials, paints, etc. etc. can also be utilized. Use of projector or large screen preferred.
This workshop is customizable.
Overview / Lesson Plan:
Introduction of instructor and the basic structure of the workshop. (10 min)
Participants are asked to write and draw while contemplating the question “Who do you think you are?” The results do not have to be a work of art or an essay, just ideas and sketches to build from. It’s a chance to think about how we see ourselves (characteristics, personality, experience, etc.), how others see us, and how we’d like to be seen or represented. (15 min)
Have participants get into pairs, ideally with someone they don’t know at all or very well. Encourage them to get up and not just pick the person next to them. Space these pairs out around the room and have them briefly introduce themselves. Then walk through the interview process with the entire group, giving examples that promote active listening skills and encourage creativity. (10 min)
Participants then conduct an interview only asking the question “Who do you think you are?” They can ask the question as many times as they like, but can’t add any other words or context. Encourage participants to go back and forth 4 times, changing the way they ask the question each time while allowing space for thoughtful responses. The respondent can stop at any time, but is encouraged to respond unless they feel uncomfortable. Both participants should take notes during the interview. When the interview is complete, each participant can start sketching out ideas for a portrait of their partner. When all interviews are completed, bring the group back together. (25 min)
Discuss the process and outcomes. (5 min)
Share examples of conceptual portraiture from 1800 forward. Present a variety of directions the participants can explore. (15 min)
Each participant must then create, or at least sketch out, a conceptual portrait which presents not a direct likeness of their partner but a representation of the details revealed during the interview process. Participants work at their own pace, taking as long as they need to complete the idea / work. Help and advice will be available throughout. (30 to 120 min)