Year 9 Art Lesson Plan: Introduction to Identity and Reko Rennie

Individual Work Workbook

Learning Intention

In this lesson, students will be introduced to the concept of identity in art, focusing on the works of contemporary Indigenous artist Reko Rennie. Through analysis of his artwork, students will explore how artists express personal and cultural identity using various artistic elements.

Success Criteria

• Reflect on how artists use their work to express personal or cultural identity.
• Understand the significance of culture in shaping identity.
• Encourage thoughtful discussion and analysis of colours, symbols, and emotions in art.

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Individual Work Activity

Task Overview

In this workbook, you will engage in individual activities that help you explore the concept of identity in art through the works of Reko Rennie. You will analyse his artwork, engage in reflection prompts, and create your own piece inspired by his style.

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Activity 1: Reko Rennie’s Art Analysis

Instructions: View the provided video/slideshow on Reko Rennie's artwork and take notes.

1. Describe the Artwork
   • Choose one artwork from the video/slideshow. Describe it in detail, focusing on elements such as:
     • Title:
     • Medium (e.g., painting, installation):
     • Dimensions (if applicable):
     • Visual Description:
       • What stands out visually?
       • What colors are predominantly used?

Note: Use bullet points to organise your thoughts.

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Activity 2: Reflection Prompts

Instructions: After viewing the artwork, reflect on these prompts. Write your responses in complete sentences.

1. What do you notice about the colours he uses?

   • Your Response:

2. How does Rennie incorporate symbols or patterns into his work?

   • Your Response:

3. Discuss how the artwork makes you feel. Which emotions does it evoke, and why?

   • Your Response:

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Activity 3: Symbolism in Art

Instructions: Conduct research on the symbols commonly used in Indigenous art. Create a list of at least five symbols and their meanings.

Symbol	Meaning

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Activity 4: Cultural Context

Instructions: Write a paragraph discussing the significance of culture in shaping identity. Use examples from Reko Rennie's artwork to support your discussion.

• Your Paragraph:

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Activity 5: Expressing Your Identity

Instructions: Create a piece of artwork that expresses your personal or cultural identity, inspired by Reko Rennie’s style. You can choose any medium you like (drawing, painting, digital, etc.).

• Title of Your Art Piece:

• Describe Your Artwork:

• Materials Used:

Reflection

Instructions: After creating your artwork, reflect on your process. Answer these questions in your workbook.

1. What was the inspiration behind your work?

   • Your Response:

2. How do you think your background influenced your creation?

   • Your Response:

3. What do you hope viewers will understand about your identity through this artwork?

   • Your Response:

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Activity 6: Sharing and Feedback

Instructions: In small groups, share your artwork and reflections with peers. Use the following guiding questions for feedback.

1. Did the artwork communicate the intended identity?
2. What aspects did you find compelling or intriguing?
3. How could the artwork be enhanced?

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Conclusion

Reflecting on Reko Rennie’s work and your own personal vision allows you to better understand the diverse expressions of identity in art. Through this workbook, you have engaged with concepts of culture, symbolism, and personal identity—key elements in both your own work and the work of contemporary artists.

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Feel free to reach out to your teacher if you have any questions or need further clarification on any of the activities!