Facial Cast Making

at Birmingham Museum of Art

About

The Birmingham Museum of Art engaged students with the “John Rhoden: Determined to Be” exhibition by offering a six-week course that familiarized students with the artist and his works through their own artmaking process. The course delved into social and emotional learning, combining hands-on elements with expressive, personal discussions. By the end of the program, students had 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

Although the Birmingham Museum of Art was unable to partner with the school it originally intended to, it was able to engage a school that did not have an arts program. This six-week undertaking 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 takes into account students’ relationship with art, as well as their behavior and ability to focus over a six-week period. Altering the program to better serve students’ needs resulted in a more positive experience.