Watercolor Self-Portraits

Students in grades 4-6 began the school year with these vibrant self-portraits. We began by drawing a proportional self-portrait in pencil during the first week. These were then traced over with crayons before being painted in with watercolor paints. Students learned about all different styles of portraits- from Frida Kahlo to Pablo Picasso and Chuck Close. Students were given the option to do a more realistic portrait or one that was more colorful and expressive. We also cut out our names from magazines to add over the top of the portrait. I am loving the uniqueness of each piece and how it reflects each artist's personality!

Superhero Self-Portraits

Montessori students in grades 1-3 created these dynamic self-portraits. We began by drawing a realistic and proportional self-portrait. Once it was complete, we added some details to turn ourselves into superheroes- things like capes, masks, emblems, etc. Students then colored these with colored pencils and were encouraged to use bright and bold colors to mimic superheroes from comic books. We then created an abstract cityscape with cutout shapes in neutral colors. This was a cute twist on the self-portrait that really brought out each students personality and style.

Middle School Self-Portraits

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!

First Day of Art!

PreK and Kinder students created these works of art on their very first day of art! We began by reading the book Art Is by Bob Raczka and talking about all the fun things we do in art class. Next, students were free to create a work of art and draw whatever they wanted. During the second class, students used some precut squares to create a pattern around the border. We learned the three primary colors and added some finishing touches to the drawings. The results are a nicely framed commemorative art piece for the first day of art!