Lesson 1: Art History: Cultural Symbolism

Students are introduced to Salvadoran folk art and analyze how symbols and color communicate meaning. Using guided discussion and the Feldman critique method, students interpret recurring imagery and connect it to cultural values and traditions. They also conduct research on symbolic meaning and reflect on the importance of cultural representation in art.

Essential Question(s):

How do symbols and colors in Salvadoran folk art communicate cultural identity and community values?

Curriculum Standard(s):

  • NCAS:

    • VA:Re7.2.5a (Responding) Analyze visual imagery based on cultural context.

    • VA:Cn11.1.5a (Connecting) Identify how art reflects cultural traditions and values.

  • Social Justice-Identity (Standard 4) Students express pride and respect for cultural identities.

  • ISTE-1.3 Knowledge Constructor Students build knowledge through research and evaluation of resources.

  • Georgia Visual Arts GSE Standards Standards:

    • VA6.CN.1-Connect Salvadoran folk art to cultural, historical, and personal contexts.

    • VA6.RE.1-Interpret how symbols and color communicate meaning in artwork

Objectives:

  • Analyze symbols in Salvadoran folk art

  • Explain how color and imagery show meaning

  • Identify cultural themes and values

Art History: Step-by-Step:

  1. Hook: Discuss everyday symbols (logos, emojis, flags)

  2. Introduction: View Salvadoran folk art and Fernando Llort’s work

  3. Observe: Identify colors, shapes, and repeated symbols

  4. Analyze: Discuss how symbols are arranged and used

  5. Interpret: Explore what the symbols might represent culturally

  6. Evaluate: Reflect on why the artwork is important to identity

  7. Research: Investigate meanings of Salvadoran symbols

  8. Discuss: Share findings in small groups

  9. Closure: Write a short response about one symbol and its meaning

Art History Lesson Plan
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Studio: Folk Art Illustration