2010-2013, Pen and ink on paper, 42 x 30 cm, Series of 3
By WANG MO, Bedok Green Secondary School, Art Teacher
I am interested in the same subject matter of the female. My ambition in discovering the female persona was matched by a critical anxiety that encouraged me to think deeper about my practice throughout the years of art making. In this series of female portraits, modern female spirits are confined in various façades of traditional images. All appear submissive and gentle,but their thoughts and feelings may not be. The exploration of conflict between being unique individuals and the historical stereotyping of female icons is important in this series of works.
Each woman presented has a unique character, but as a whole, they show an overwhelming sense of calmness and resilience. A collective determination is manifested in this series, yet each drawing standing alone would be too weak and powerless to be exhibited.
Lesson Ideas for SHEs (2010-2013) by Wang Mo
This lesson is suitable for students in: Secondary 3 (Express)
Artwork title: SHEs
Name of artist: Wang Mo
School: Bedok Green Secondary School
Possible Guiding Questions
Circles of Viewpoints
1. I am thinking of the depiction of women in artworks from the point of view of:
b. A viewer who lives in the 1900s.
c. A viewer who lives in the 21st century.
2. From my point of view, the artist has depicted the women in this way because: _________________
3. From my point of view, I think the artist is effective/ineffective in her portrayal of women because: _________________________________
4. A question I have from my point of view is: ____________________________________________________________________________________
Possible Elegant Art Tasks
In this lesson idea, students could be asked to think about the personal narratives of significant women in their lives. The teacher could introduce students to the works of artists who have transformed important life moments into works of art (e.g. Frida Kahlo).
A possible elegant art task could be:
In the form of a painting, create a personal narrative that depicts the people, places and experiences of a significant women in your life.
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