Printing Activist and Protest Patches for Wearable Art

High School
9 - 12

Students will delve into the world of protest art, exploring its unconventional nature and recognizing its significant role in print media. The focus of the lesson will be on utilizing relief printmaking techniques to empower students to create their own protest art in the form of patches. These patches will not only serve as expressive artworks but also as tangible items that can be sewn onto tote bags or t-shirts, turning them into wearable statements of activism. Students will also explore the historical and contemporary context of this genre, considering its power to communicate social issues, challenge norms, and inspire change while encouraging students to consider the public sphere as a canvas for their expression. Students will learn the medium of relief printmaking and will be encouraged to reflect on the significance of positive and negative space in design; in turn fostering an understanding of how composition and organization play a crucial role in effective visual communication. Discussions on design principles will further enhance students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills.