Self Portraits: A Modern Renaissance Woman
Bethany Critchlow
Critchlow.9@buckeyemail.osu.edu
Anthropological Sciences Major
Forensic Science Minor
Description
Anita, Kennedy, Kate and I, when first wondering what we could do for our second-year project, had immediately agreed doing an arts and crafts project. What we failed to realize is that figuring out what art to create was the hardest part. Idea after idea, we came to the conclusion that we’d paint self-portraits, because we are able to explore what humanities has to offer and those experiences shape us into who we are and how we see ourselves.
Process
Coming up with the idea took lots of brainstorming and communicating between our group. Once we had the idea, we had to manage our time and figure out a day and time that worked with all of our busy schedules. The night we had our painting session was calm and relaxing, which I feel like was exciting because though we had a goal in mind, the painting wasn’t taxing to do. Painting ourselves took about 3 hours, where within that time we painted how we saw ourselves and added little quirks to each that reflected who we are and how humanities changed me for the better.
Results
The end results of my self-reflection were astounding. I see myself has resembling someone from a renaissance painting, and my portrait gives off the impression of a modern-day renaissance woman. I used two mediums: paint and clippings from magazine, which represents the complexity my perspective has gained from being involved with humanities. The colors and personality my self-portrait portrays really capture my essence and I’m proud of the painting I created.
Reflection
By completing this project, I’ve gained a better understanding of myself and how much Humanities means to me. Humanities has allowed me to do so much in my two short years here at Ohio State and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunities they’ve given me. By reflecting on myself I was able to capture the importance of engaging in the humanities and how much it fosters growth in people. This understanding will help me in future endeavors by encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone and participate in all things humanities, even if there’s something that’s holding me back.