Facial Cast Making

at Birmingham Museum of Art

About

Birmingham Museum of Art engaged students with the “John Rhoden: Determined to Be” exhibit by compiling a six-week course that familiarized students with Rhoden and his works through their own artmaking process. The project delved into social and emotional learning, combining hands-on elements with expressive, personal discussions. By the end of the program, students created their own plaster sculpture mask that expressed their personalities and character.

Intended Outcome

This program intended to reinvigorate the museum’s relationship with Birmingham City Schools by bringing in 25 students.

Actual Outcome

Though the museum was unable to partner with the school it originally intended, BMA was able to engage a school that did not have an arts program. This program still exceeded expectations by expanding access to 46 local students.

Advice Post Project

When partnering with schools, work closely with administrators to create a plan that considers students’ relationship with art, behavior, and ability to focus over a six-week time period. Altering the program to better serve students’ needs resulted in a more positive experience for Birmingham.