The purpose of the "Identity Pole" was to explore the big idea of identity. Students would confront issues of personal and cultural meaning, and draw upon interdisciplinary connections for inspiration. The author chose to present totem poles of the Northwest Coast Native Americans/First Nations of Canada, as well as school, state and national…

Describes an art project for high school students that incorporates maskmaking with mixed-media. Explains that students choose subjects for their masks, either a fictional character, a famous figure, or a symbol of social commentary. States that the project develops students' creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills. (CMK)