3D Names

Fifth graders began the year by using perspective to create 3D names.  This was a great project for learning not only one-point perspective but also different color concepts.

Learning Goal: I can...
- Use a horizon line, vanishing point and perspective lines to create the illusion of form.
- Use watercolor pencils to blend analogous colors
- Use complementary colors to make my name stand out

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)

Blue Dog

George Rodrigue’s Blue dog is always an exciting project for our third graders.  This year I showed our artists a huge variety of examples.  It is amazing to see all the variations of Blue dog that Rodrigue has created!  Students were asked to decide what kinds of clothes they wanted their blue dog wearing.  

Typically, I have students do two drawings one on the back and one drawing on the front of their paper.  This helps students to try out a couple ideas and choose the one they wanted to turn into the finished masterpiece.  Not only are they gaining more experience, correcting for past mistakes and trying out new ideas but, using this method, they are also given the opportunity to evaluate their own artwork. 

Learning Goals: I can...

• Tell about Blue Dog (art history)
• Create my own unique version of Blue Dog
• Use complementary colors (dog color compliments background color for contrast)
• Use good craftsmanship when drawing and painting