A Study of Self-Image Through Portraiture
Files
Research Paper
Date
2014-12-01
DOI
Authors
Szabo, Benjamin
Version
Embargo Date
2015-02-24
OA Version
Citation
Abstract
This active research study reviewed the relationship between portraiture and self-image in eighth
grade students. The question that guided the research asked: How might student self-image of
eighth graders at American Fork Junior High change when comparing portraits made as the
subject, verses self-portraits made as the artist? Twelve students were asked to complete a selfportrait
in graphite and respond to a series of interview questions designed to interpret whether
the drawing and/or art medium influenced self-image. Next, the researcher completed a thirtyminute,
video recorded head drawing of each student in blue colored pencil. The participants
took part in another interview that explored the effects of portraiture on self-perception and the
data from both drawings were compared. The main objective was to determine how style,
quality, and art media in portraiture could influence student self-esteem. The findings were
evaluated and showed that students were more worried about sitting as the subject for a drawing,
but were generally happier with the results of the portrait for multiple reasons. The blue colored
pencil, more often than not, was more appealing than the graphite; the style of the life drawings
created an interesting aesthetic and students felt the drawing from life represented them in a
positive and uplifting way. With the results of the study curricular adjustments can be made to
portraiture units and relationships between teachers and students can be nurtured.
Key Terms: Self-image, portraiture, head drawing, self-portrait, art media, aesthetic,
trait specific esteem, state specific esteem
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License
CC0 1.0 Universal