Self-Portraits Chuck Close Style

Students in middle school created these self-portraits in the style of American artist Chuck Close. We began by working from a photograph- students drew a 1/2 inch grid over the photo and a 1 and 1/2 inch grid over a 12x18 sheet of drawing paper. We then transferred the information over so the portrait was accurate and proportional. Next, students chose a color and created a value scale in that color from light to dark. The drawing was then filled in with different values that matched the black and white photograph. Students had to become comfortable with blending and creating many values within the portrait. I do this project every year and the results are always incredible!

Native American Pottery

Students in grades 4-6 created these Native American vases as an introduction to a pottery unit. We began by sketching several vase designs using traditional Native American designs and animal symbols. We watched several videos of native people creating vases. Students then drew out large vases and colored the designs with marker. When finished, the designs were outlined with black sharpie to make them stand out and have clear edges. The final step was to shade the vases with oil pastels; black on one side for a shadow and white on the opposite side for a highlight.