Identities in America (re)framed is a rigorous introduction to the modern applications of soft pastels and conte crayons, as both wet and dry mediums, with an emphasis on experimentation, developing technical skills, and thinking critically about contemporary identities in the midst of the current political climate of the United States. We will draw inspiration from leading Black and Indigenous artists, paying particular attention to currently museum display practices and how representation is critical for changing the discourse of what "American Art" means. The course is grounded in project-based learning to highlight important skills pertinent to each student's individual goals, and students will leave the course with a final work (or series of works) that explores what identity means to them and their practice.