Editor’s Note: This is a suggested framework for a lesson for this project.  As different classes, grade levels, and media will dictate different curricular needs, it is up to the teacher to decide on the parameters of the project.  This project can be altered, expanded, or ignored as it suits your class’ needs. Any project that features students creating surrealist self portraits will be considered. 

ACTIVITY

Students will discuss their dreams, look at examples of surrealist work, and create a surreal self portrait that contains clues about their life, dreams, culture, and community using operational techniques for transformation.

OBJECTIVE

Students will learn that the juxtaposition of unexpected images and forms can create new meaning for both artist and viewer.

TOPIC QUESTION

What is the strangest dream you can remember?

PROCEDURE

1. Students will discuss their dreams.

2. Students examine selected surrealist work.

3. 3.Students watch the presentation on Operational Techniques for Transformation and are directed to the list on the website for future reference.
   

4. 4.Students choose different Operational Techniques to suggest clues about life, dreams, culture, and community.
   

5. 5.Students sketch out different ideas combining these techniques.
   

6. 6.Students create a work of art based on their sketches.