Matrix: Contemporary Printmaking - Museum of Fine Arts - Florida ...

Fall 2009
Lesson plan
3. Students should pay close attention to the art elements in Shimomura’s workscolor,
line, shape, texture, and value (lights and darks). What seems to be the
most prominent element in his works?
4. A. What is the purpose of Shimomura’s presentation of Asian subjects?
B. What is the controversy he hopes viewers will explore and discuss?
C. What emotions does Shimomura make you think of through his use of
materials, elements, and principles?
D. Describe the social/cultural context from which his work came.
5. Each student will receive collage materials in order to put together a piece of
work of his/her own that compares and contrasts his/her personal culture and
background with another’s heritage and background. In order to choose a
different culture to compare and contrast, each student will choose a partner and
discuss the different backgrounds.
6. After completing the assignment each student will be encouraged to present
his/her art work to the class.
7. Encourage a class discussion to promote acceptance of all cultural backgrounds.
Evaluation: Did the student…
1. Understand the meaning behind Shimomura’s prints?
2. Create an art piece that compares two different cultures?
3. Understand the meaning of tolerance of other people’s backgrounds?
Background information:
Roger Shimomura, Fox and
Banzai, acrylic on canvas,
2003
Roger Shimomura was born in Seattle's Central
District on 6/26/1939. He spent the first few years of his life
interned with his family at the Puyallup State Fairgrounds
while camps were being built by the U.S. These internment
camps were designed by President Roosevelt during World
War II to isolate Japanese Americans from other Americans
due to the war with Japan. The
purpose was to protect Americans
from any harm within the U.S.
borders. The practice of separating
Japanese Americans was
subsequently criticized and condemned. Soon he and his family
transferred to Camp Minidoka in southern Idaho.
Roger Shimomura, West
Seattle Shotgun, acrylic on
canvas, 2003
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