Using our amazing collection of East Anglian artists, including Gainsborough, Constable and Cedric Morris, compare and contrast how portrait artists have captured their sitters. Explore a portrait in detail, pose for your own 18th Century portrait, work as a team to create a life size portrait or be a portrait artist in the galleries.
Introduction to Portraits (recommended essential)
An interactive workshop introducing portraits, portrait artists and how portraits have changed over time. Compare and contrast, what sort of portraits can you see at Gainsborough’s House?
Be a Portrait Artist
- Learn how Gainsborough painted his portraits
- Imagine you are the artist and have a go at drawing a portrait yourself
- Different artist’s portraits may be available depending on exhibitions
Portrait Collectors
- Look for details in the portraits using a prompt bag and collectors worksheet
- Full teacher instruction sheet provided
Portrait Up Close!
- Compare and contrast two different portraits in detail
- Explore items and activities to unpack the portraits
18th Century Costume in Portraits
- An In-depth look at 18th Century costume
- Work as a team to dress up two children in replica costume and find out all about the clothes and how they were worn
Inside the portrait
- In the Frame – Imagine you are a famous person having your portrait painted. Dress up and pose for your picture.
- Make a fabric bookmark based on the fabrics in the paintings
- All about me – have a go at a self portrait
BIG portrait Art
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Artists like Gainsborough created life-size portraits of their sitters.
- In small teams, create a life-sized portrait
Classroom resources
The following resources are available for you to use before or after your visit to Gainsborough’s House: 18th Century Costume
