A R T with M R. F A I R C H I L D
Visual Arts & Adv. Art 2025-2026
(Neo-Expressionism)
Lessons:
African American art is a vibrant and diverse expression of creativity that reflects the experiences, history, and culture of African Americans in the United States. It encompasses a wide range of visual arts, including painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, and more.​
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African American art has a rich and complex history, rooted in the African diaspora, and shaped by the struggles and triumphs of African Americans throughout American history. It has played a significant role in documenting the African American experience, celebrating cultural heritage, and challenging societal norms and injustices.
Kara Walker, (Untitled) 1997
Amy Sherald (Left)
Faith Ringgold, The Sunflower Quilting, 1997
(Left) Faith Ringgold, (Top right) Henry Tanner, (Bottom right) Romare Bearden
Jean Michel Basquiat, 1984 - 1987
ASSIGNMENTS
(Neo-Expressionism)
CONNECTING THE CURRICULUM​​
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Creative Expression: Neo-Expressionism, as an art style, encourages bold, emotional, and personal expression. This project would align with Gwinnett County's AKS for creative expression, where students are expected to use art to communicate ideas, emotions, and personal experiences.
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Art History: The AKS standards for visual arts typically include learning about various art movements and styles. A project focused on Neo-Expressionism can help middle school students connect with art history and recognize how different styles convey emotions and stories in unique ways.
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Elements of Art: Neo-Expressionism often uses exaggerated, bold colors, distorted forms, and dynamic compositions to convey intense emotion. Students would need to explore and apply the elements (line, shape, color, texture, form) and principles (balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, rhythm) of design in their portraits, fulfilling AKS standards related to understanding and applying these concepts.
