Bensonhurst Senior Center Blog 2 5/26/22 Portrait Book

Bensonhurst Senior Center

Blog 2  5/26/22

Portrait Book

Color affects each of us differently. Colors resonate with us as they bring back memories or strong feelings. As a warmup exercise, we all struck a pose or movement as each of the primary colors were named. Working in pairs, the leader thought of a color then enacted a movement which reflected how that color made them feel. Without discussing what the color was, the partner matched their emotion with a movement.  

Acknowledging the seniors’ work is an essential part of each class. Each student’s collage from last week was held up and the colors, shapes and layout were discussed. Everyone was encouraged to comment on what they saw and what emotions or feelings the color choice created in them. Students also commented on each other’s choice of tiger and how the collaged background affected how the tiger was perceived.

Tracing technique was demonstrated, and students taped a piece of tracing paper over their headshot and using a pencil traced all the lines. After checking the drawing was complete, by placing a white piece of paper underneath, they used a black marker and went over all the lines. Next, they erased the pencil. This type of tracing is a fun activity as you can choose to add all the lines on your face or eliminate some, you’re suddenly younger!

Different Colored tissue paper was spread across the table. A list of personality descriptive words was cut up and Spica called out each, such as energetic, passionate, thoughtful as the students decided which color best evoked that personality trait. Some traits, such as beautiful, were placed on more than one color. Students were asked to select the words which best described them. Then they chose the colored tissue which corresponded with their description. Next week we will use these colors when collaging the background for their self-portrait. 

As next week is the Dragon Boat Festival, So Sim made Spica and me delicious zongzi. She also crocheted adorable miniature tigers for both of us. I look forward to hanging it on my Family Tree!

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