Abstract Circles

Second graders did a quick project on abstract painting.  We talked about the difference between abstract and realistic.  At the most extreme end of abstract art we have non-objective art.  This project would fall into this category because there is not even a hidden picture camouflaged by shapes and colors.

When we painted our acrylic circle paintings with watercolor we talked about color relationships.  We learned that if all 3 of the primary colors (red, yellow, blue) are present in a mixture then the color turns brownish.

To illustrate this concept did some MATH! We simplified equations:

R+Y+B =Brown: this equation can be simplified the following ways:

Mixing Complimentary Colors (opposites)

O+B=Brown

G+R=Brown

P+Y=Brown

We also expanded equations and discovered that all 3 of the primaries were present in these secondary mixtures:

G+P=Brown becomes Y+B+B+R= Brown

O+G= Brown becomes Y+R+Y+G=Brown

When blending our watercolor paint we tried to avoid the above combinations!

Students learned that they can play it safe by blending analogous colors (colors that are right next to each other on the color wheel).  These color combinations always involve only 2 primary colors!

Learning Goals: I can...

- Tell the difference between abstract and realistic

- Blend colors and avoid a muddy look (brownish)