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Would you like to see this artifact preserved for the future? Why?.In what ways does the artifact connect to a “set of values” or beliefs?.Does the artifact bring forth memories? If so, what memories?.Where does the artifact live? Is this artifact important to you and/or your family? Has the artifact been passed down from generation to generation?.Where was the artifact made? How was it made and who made it?.How does this artifact connect to others beyond the people to whom it belongs? Does the artifact have a function?.What meaning might it have throughout history-past, present, and future? How old is the artifact? Describe the artifact’s place in time.What informed your decision to take your photograph?.The aim of this reflection is to tell the story of your chosen artifact. Write a short reflection, or photographer’s statement, about your photograph, taking into consideration at least two of the questions below. How does the artifact reflect change? (Cultural, historical, or social, e.g.).In what ways does the artifact connect the people in your life?.How does your artifact capture a moment in time?.You will take one photograph of an artifact, which responds to one or more of the following questions: Think about an artifact or object that you love. Steven Lubar and Kathleen Kendrick, “Looking at Artifacts, Thinking about History.” Smithsonian Education. “Imagine the artifact not in a spotlight by itself, but rather against a variegated backdrop of people, places, and events.” What story emerges?ġ. The aim of this project is to challenge students to examine the value of artifacts from multiple perspectives. Preserved in museums around the world, artifacts tell the stories of humanity’s downfalls, achievements, and innovations.Īn article from the Smithsonian Institution suggests different ways to think about artifacts. Anything that provides more evidence about the cultural, economic, historical, religious, and social aspects of our society could be considered an artifact. They can be found in our homes, gardens, streets, parks, and churches, among other locations. Some examples include family photographs, medals from war, jewelry, religious items, diaries, old coins or stamps, kitchen items, clothing, or literature. Many artifacts are passed down from generation to generation, becoming a part of our family and cultural heritage.
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