There is much to explore in the depiction of a portrait. Why was it made of that specific material? Was it driven by intent? Many artists have mastered their craft through careful thought and consideration which has led them towards innovative practices and/or finite ways of creating an image. This observation is found in the infinite number of black tones used by Kerry James Marshall, within the strikingly vibrant quilted portraits by Bisa Butler and in the perfectly gradiented mixed media assemblages by Devan Shimoyama. Legacy Russell’s most recent manifesto, ‘Glitch Feminism’ examines the identity of self, and how one's avatar/portrait exists online and AFK (Away From Keyboard). This course will consist of lectures revolving around intent, materiality and their relationship to portraiture. The class will consider materials that compliment and/or contrast narratives within portraiture, and begin experimenting with materials while generating ideas for the creation of their own ‘portrait’. There will also be assigned readings about identity and the role of the virtual avatar by the likes of Hito Steyerl and Legacy Russell. The class will aim to complete a portrait by the end of the 5 weeks, and share their intent behind the material of their choosing.