Basquiat Art Lesson Black History Month Art Project BTS Self Portrait Artwork

This Basquiat Inspired Self-Portrait Art Project is a complete Jean-Michel Basquiat art lesson for grades 3 to 5. Students learn about Basquiat's life and style, explore symbolism and identity, and create bold, expressive self-portraits with oil pastel and acrylic or tempera paint.

Along the way they experiment with line, movement, texture and symbols, explore tint and shade through a layered background, and add elements of their own identity. They then reflect, analyze the Elements of Art and Principles of Design, set goals and critique their work. No specialized art background is needed, because the step-by-step visuals support both you and your students.

WHAT TEACHERS ARE SAYING

★★★★ “This was a great resource that engaged students in the activity.” Katy S.

WHAT'S INCLUDED (NON-EDITABLE PDF)

• Detailed Lesson Plan with materials, standards alignment and participation strategies
• Warm-Up Art Challenge
• Reading Passage on Jean-Michel Basquiat
• KWL Chart
• 9 Visual and Written Step-by-Step Pages
• Large Poster Sample
• Assessment Rubric
• Elements and Principles Reflection Page
• Compare and Contrast (Basquiat vs. Keith Haring)
• Goal Setting Page
• Peer Feedback Page (3 Stars and a Wish)
• Artist Statement Pages
• Display Sign

HOW TO USE IT

Teach it as a focused art history unit or as part of a larger identity unit. It usually takes 2 to 3 class periods, depending on grade level, class length, skill level, depth of discussion and drying time. It suits grades 3 to 5 classroom teachers, elementary art specialists, homeschool educators and substitute teachers.

MATERIALS

Oil pastels, acrylic paint (or tempera as a substitute), thick paper or cardstock, paint brushes and water.

FAQ

Is this lesson too complex for elementary students?

No. The reading and steps are written at an accessible level for grades 3 to 5, with structure that supports success and room for creative independence.

Can I adapt the materials?

Yes. Acrylic is recommended for bold coverage, but tempera works well. Oil pastels are important for the expressive linework inspired by Basquiat's style.

Is it aligned with standards?

It supports the National Core Arts Standards for creating, presenting, responding and connecting.

Does it include assessment tools?

Yes. A rubric, reflection pages, peer feedback and artist statement pages are included.

ALL TEACHER REVIEWS (1)

★★★★ “My child is in intermediate school and really enjoyed making this.” Jovan F.

Get free, classroom-ready art lessons and printables in my Free Art Lesson Library.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kathleen McGiveron (Ms Artastic) is an artist and educator who has been featured on NBC LX News and is the featured teacher of OCO Magazine. She designs art lessons for kids and educational resources for teachers that blend creativity, structure and meaningful learning. She is the founder of Ms Artastic and host of the Ms Artastic YouTube Channel and Podcast.

TERMS OF USE

Images and lessons are copyright products. All rights reserved.

YOU MAY: use this resource in your classroom or homeschool. Additional licenses are available for school use.

YOU MAY NOT: use this on OutSchool, put it on your blog, share it with other teachers, administration or districts (additional licensing required), or sell, redistribute or photocopy it for others.

Sincerely,

Ms Artastic