We have looked at the artwork of Victor Cicansky, and discussed how he incorporates humour into things that are part of his everyday life. He portrays pickles with wings, an old man and woman who are also armchairs holding vegetables, and makes fun of himself in his own self portraits. This assignment mimics his artwork.

Medium: Acrylic Paints on 11” by 14” canvas board (we will learn about using Acrylics in class.)
This page gives you some pointers, if you want to do a little background research. Or watch this video for some beginning colour blending lessons.


Step 1. Brainstorm about symbols of your everyday life, and your identity. Pick a few, and consider how you could twist them to be humorous.

Step 2. Create preliminary rough sketches in your sketchbook. Choose the idea you like the best.

Step 3. Run your idea by me. I may make a few suggestions to challenge you a little more.

Step 4. Begin painting! Try to focus on your use of colour. Look to Cicansky’s work as an example of colour use.

Due Date: Wed. Sept. 24th

When Finished... post your work on your Deviant Art Account, either by taking a picture of it or scanning it at home,or having me assist you in class. Under the Artist's Comments, you will fill responses to the following-

Why you chose your subject and how it relates to your life/identity.

How you incorporated your sense of humour.

What elements of art and design are shown, and

What did you find most challenging about creating this piece.

Be prepared to also discuss these things in class on the 24th and 25th.

For the 26th you must leave constructive comments on at least 4 other student's accounts. This will be part of your grade for this assignment. Constructive comments don't just say, "wow, that's nice work." They are more specific, citing exactly what you like about the artwork, and what you would do differently next time. I am sure that you are all mature enough to understand the difference between giving constructive feedback and bashing someone's work, so use proper etiquette when responding to your classmates.
Note: we will have an in-class feedback day one week before the project is due to allow you to incorporate constructive criticisms.