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!

Southwestern Landscapes

Middle School students painted these southwestern landscapes to learn the art principle of space. We learned about aerial perspective; that when you go back farther in space objects become duller in color and smaller. Students then designed their own original landscape and painted to show depth in space. 

Summer Landscapes

The 4-6 classes ended the year with a project exploring brightly colored summer landscapes. We began by looking at some paintings of flowers, suns and oceans. Students then worked on sketches that needed to include an enlarged subject that went off at least one edge of the page. I also gave the students the choice to include some elements similar to Japanese prints, such as enormous waves or stylized sun rays. After drawing on the large paper, we covered the lines with a black glue. This gives the lines a dynamic and fluid look. We then filled the rest in with vibrant liquid watercolors. The finished paintings were a great representation of summer!

Printmaking Flowers

Students in middle school created these flowers to learn about the art of printmaking. We began with a line drawing of a flower and used that to create the "block" out of styrofoam. Next, students colored the block with markers and pulled prints by lightly dampening a paper and pressing the block. Students created multiple prints and were able to experiment with color blending and different color combinations. We then chose the best prints and incorporated them into a uniquely designed drawing. I had the students do the drawing in black sharpie so the flowers would contrast and stand out as the emphasis of the piece. I love how each student interpreted the directions differently and used the flowers in a different and unique way!

Giraffe Paintings

Giraffes are my absolute favorite animal, so every year I have to pull in at least one giraffe project. This was inspired by a photograph I came across recently of the front view of a giraffe. I began with a step-by-step drawing of the giraffe starting with the nose. Once the drawing was complete, students outlined everything with either a black or brown crayon. We later used watercolor paint and attached some leaves for a border frame. This was definitely a standout project that was a success for every student!

Woven Snakes

PreK and Kinder created these woven snakes to learn about pattern, weaving and color contrast. We began by creating a painting by blending yellow and green together. During the next class, students cut out and added patterns to snakes in red and orange. We then cut the green/yellow painting to create a loom and wove the snakes in and out. The final step was to glue down the snakes once they are in place and add little tongues and eyes.