Schools workshop: Fact, Fiction, and Photography (KS3 to KS5) — Impressions Gallery

From self-portraits to staged photographs to film installations, this reflective workshop asks pupils to explore what is fact or fiction in our exhibition Autofictions by Trish Morrissey.

Morrissey came to prominence in the early 2000s among a generation of female photographers working with staged photography, often putting themselves in the picture. Throughout her career, Morrissey has combined performance, photography, and film to play real and fictional characters. The exhibition Autofictions brings together photographs and films spanning over twenty years of her career.

In the first part of the workshop, pupils will be taken on a guided tour around the exhibition by our Learning Manager. They will then take part in a discussion exploring how Morrissey has taken on different identities, staged photographs and explored her personal story in her work. Pupils will discuss what is fact or fiction, and how these lines can be blurred through photography.

In the second part of the workshop, pupils will choose one image to explore in more detail. Using the process of ‘slow looking’ pupils will take part in an exercise that teaches them how to read images. At the end of the session, pupils will feedback their thoughts and ideas to the rest of the group.

Curriculum areas

Photography, Art and Design, English, History.

Pupils will:

  • Learn about the artist and their artwork.
  • Learn how ideas, themes, subjects and feelings can inspire creative responses.
  • Learn how to read and interpret images.
  • Have the opportunity to make enquiries and develop interpretation.
  • Learn how to debate and argue different points of view.

Booking details

  • This workshop is available until 13 October 2023.
  • Workshop cost £120+VAT.
  • Special price for Artsmark schools of £96+VAT (20% discount).
  • The session time is 2 hours long.
  • Maximum 35 students per session.
  • Where possible, please book at least two weeks in advance.
  • To book call Jennifer Sobol, Learning Manager on 01274 737843 or email jennifersobol@impressions-gallery.com

Image: Hayley Coles, June 17th, 2006 from Front, 2005-2007 © Trish Morrissey

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