Ethnic-Racial Identity (ERI) is a core aspect of who we are, encompassing our cultural heritage, traditions, and how our racial background shapes our experiences. This artistic project provides students with an opportunity to visually represent their ERI in a way that speaks to their unique perspectives and stories.

Objective: This project aims to give students a creative space to explore and express their Ethnic-Racial Identity (ERI) through visual art, encouraging self-reflection and celebrating cultural diversity.

Materials Needed:

• Various art supplies like paper, canvas, paint, markers, and colored pencils.
• Access to digital tools for those interested in digital art.
• Optional: Reference materials showcasing diverse cultural art forms.
• Space for displaying finished artwork to share with the school community.

Activity Steps:

• Introduction to Ethnic-Racial Identity (10 minutes): Start by discussing ERI with students. Explain that it includes their cultural roots, traditions, and how their racial identity shapes their worldview and interactions.

• Guided Reflection (15 minutes): Lead a reflective discussion where students explore their own ERI:
  • Encourage students to think about meaningful cultural traditions, values, or experiences that define their identity.
  • Ask guiding questions such as:
    • What aspects of your cultural heritage do you feel most connected to?
    • How does your racial background influence how you see the world?
    • Are there symbols or images that represent your cultural identity?

• Artistic Exploration (45 minutes): Allow students ample time to create their artwork based on their reflections:
  • Let students choose their preferred art medium (painting, drawing, collage, etc.).
  • Encourage them to incorporate symbols, colors, and imagery that reflect their ERI and cultural identity.
  • Provide examples of diverse cultural art forms for inspiration.

• Artistic Process and Guidance (30 minutes): Circulate among students to provide support and feedback:
  • Help students refine their artwork to effectively convey their ideas and emotions.
  • Encourage experimentation with different techniques and materials.

• Reflection and Sharing (20 minutes): Facilitate a session where students share their artwork and insights:
  • Each student presents their piece, explaining the inspiration behind it, the symbolism used, and how it represents their ERI.
  • Create a supportive environment for classmates to ask questions and offer feedback.

• Display and Celebration (10 minutes): Display the completed artworks in a designated area of the school:
  • Arrange a gallery walk where students can admire each other’s artwork and read artist statements.
  • Celebrate the diversity of ERI represented in the artworks and the creative talents of each student.