Still Life Surprise

Still Life Surprise-Inspired by Vincent Van Gogh's sunflowers and an assortment of Dutch flower themed still life masterpieces





Part I using a ruler to create a table/horizon line and watercolors  students develop an understanding of foreground, middle ground and background. They could only use a total of 4 colors in the painting process.

Part II using folded construction paper students will draw and cut out a symmetrical vase to sit on the table.













Part III The flowers and leaves are torn paper, the centers are pre-cut or torn.

Part IV: adding details and a camouflaged insect of some kind (surprise!)

Western Expansion

Starry Nights meets the Oregon trail.
Students created a Starry Night inspired sky with watercolor, sea salt and crayon. Torn black paper was used for the ground. Working in teams they connected their ground and developed a story based on their knowledge of the 1800's journey out west. We looked at art prints from the time and table hand outs of the west (animals, landscape and clothing styles of the Old West) for inspiration.
With scissors, more black paper and Sharpie markers they added the final details to their composition.

I think they did a great job!

Watercolor Sky

This project revisits the color wheel and connects to color theory as well as landscapes.

Using only yellow, orange, red, purple and blue watercolors (wet on wet) students create a sunset/sunrise sky. We did a direct painting process calling out each color together then painting an arch like stripe across the sky. Students were encouraged to keep the color edge wet and vary the width of the arches/stripes.

Part II using only black paper (great way to use up scraps) and glue sticks,  student tore the paper for the ground and then were given scissor and pencils to add other landscape type elements such as animals, trees, structures and rocks.  

 

Where is the vase?

I shared this project with 2nd grade artists but it can be adjusted to challenge a variety of age groups. Where is the vase, reinforces the use of foreground, middle ground and background using watercolor and both torn and cut paper collage. Van Gogh's Sunflower paintings and other classic still life pieces are a great visual support element and discussion focus.

This project can also connect to color theory and the elements of art.

Torn Paper Self Portaits

 Students review the basics for creating a self portrait practicing on sketch paper with mirrors. Using head shaped patterns they drew a simplified picture of themselves on card stock. Construction paper and magazines were the materials used to complete this project. Students used glue sticks to apply the materials but scissors were not allowed, this was a torn paper art piece. I think they did a great job.