Students bring in at least 2 samples of labels from some of their favorite products. They are asked to analyze and list all the elements of the labels they see Students and teacher create a web on the board of common elements in all labels. Students view examples of labels on artwork from museums or galleries. Students are given the challenge to create self-portraits of themselves as labels. They must decide what information they want to include on the self-portrait and what type of imaginary commercial product they will use to represent themselves.
Students take on the role of commercial artist and the teacher becomes the art director.
In a series of homework assignments that are presented to the class student create thumbnail drawings, rough sketches, and comprehensive drawings of the self-portrait label. Students critique each other's work. The students go on a trip to see at least two museums or galleries. If possible, arrange to meet a docent, curator or representative of the education department to discuss with the class how decisions are made about what information to presented to the public in the form of labels and catalogues. The students choose at least two works of art about which to write their own labels about.