Modern self portraiture through the eyes of Mary Crocker Fassett

In honor and homage to the CCMoA exhibition of Mary Crocker Fassett (1915-2016), you will explore the art of self-portraiture, first classically, and then with a modern approach. Your workshop starts with a deep look around the exhibit to analyze Fassett’s portraits and self-portraits. You will then go to the classroom, and with a mirror, create a classic drawing of yourself in charcoal. There will be demonstrations on how to achieve this.

After viewing the self-portraits of contemporary artists Cindy Sherman, Frida Kahlo, and Cape artists who embrace the genre, you will select a primary medium for the workshop. Within the context of identity and your SELF as visual expression, the next steps are directed by you. Some ideas: Photographs of yourself, or writings, or drawings can be collaged or drawn and painted on. Or, you create a scene where you are the subject in oil on canvas. Or, you use the mirror for the entire process in different ways. You can work in sculpture, photography, paint, collage or printmaking. The subject matter for the weekend is YOU. It will be engaging, informative and transformative.

​Peer Review will include introducing a system of critique ideal for artist-to-artist feedback on our works in progress. Lunch is a half hour. Please bring your lunch with you or pick something up in advance at the Dennis Public Market. A refrigerator is available if needed.

About Fassett: Boston native and Cape Cod transplant Mary Crocker Fassett (1915 - 2016) was a self-taught artist who worked in various mediums. Drawings in charcoal and ink; paintings in oil, egg tempera, and pastel; intaglio engraving and etchings; ceramics; and sculptural materials for some 80 years. Much of her art was created in her home studio in Truro, MA, where she lived from 1980 until her death.

Material list, select to expand each section:

Pick consistent sizes for your paintings, collages, drawings, such as 18 x 24, 22 x 30, 22 x 22 canvases, panels, wood, or masonite. Some of you may want to work larger than this on raw canvas. MAXIMUM SIZE IS 3 feet by 6 feet. Have at least six larger surfaces and some 12 x 16” or 12 x 12 for playing with scale. If you want to experiment with raw canvas, contact laura@laurashabott.com to discuss sizes and purchasing through the artist. 

Additional useful items:

• Gloves

• Paper towels

• Plastic bags to line your car. We will provide wrapping, but you can also add a layer of protection.

• Bagged Lunch, Snacks, Water

• Color Wheel

Laura Shabott is a graduate of SMFA at TUFTS, Boston. She is known for working directly from life using sweeping gestural forms, vibrant color and bold brushwork. Shabott’s post-college training at FAWC and the PAAM is evident in her process-based approach. A studio artist, she is also a gallery assistant, art teacher and lecturer on the history of Provincetown’s and Cape Cod’s artists and teachers. 

Shabott had her first solo show YOU ONLY GET ONE BODY  2025/25 at the Cape Cod Museum of Art, Dennis. This exhibition included large scale works, paintings, collage, drawings, and installation pieces. 

Cancellation policy: CCMoA must be notified 1 week prior for refund.