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best of art class curator

December 19, 2019 10 Comments

Decoding Style: How to Teach Students to Read an Artwork

How can you tell a Rembrandt from a Vermeer? They both are from the same location and same time period, but they each have their own way of painting, and they are each categorized in art history as Northern Baroque, Rembrandt’s thick application of paint and raw emotion is easily distinguishable from Vermeer’s crisp genre paintings.

Left: Rembrant, Saint Matthew and the Angel, 1661. Right: Vermeer, The Astronomer, 1668

Putting some of their works side by side, they have many similarities but also many key differences. I love putting artworks side by side and asking students to find the differences. Teaching students how to recognize the parts of an artwork that make it unique and the choices the artist had made helps them connect with the art and trains them to see the world around them in different ways.

In my opinion, one of the most important strategies when learning from works of art is to focus on the style of the art. Style is an artist’s way of making art. It’s how we tell one artist or one art movement from another. It’s the way they apply the paint, the compositional choices they make, the colors they use, etc.

I always begin an art history course with a discussion on style, because it is something we come to again and again and again throughout the semester.

I have a free lesson that goes along with this post.

The way I teach style is through practice. I did this activity with my 7th graders last semester during a lesson on Post-Impression, and they ate it up! They loved it!

Here’s what I do. First, I put up 4 artworks on the screen – 3 are done by the same artist and one is done by a different artist. I pick artworks that are very similar with noticeable but not overt differences. For the first time, I ask students to write in their notes which one is not by the same artist, which one doesn’t fit. Then, they have to describe the why. What makes the fourth one different? This starts to train their eye to notice detail in art.

After they have the chance to reflect individual, we take a class vote–who thought it was A, or B, etc. Sometimes, one is a clear win, but other times there is some discussion. Whether they get it right or wrong, they are still spending time with art in valuable ways.

My first set I usually use is a group of pre-Raphaelite paintings. Three are done by Dante Gabriel Rossetti and the fourth is by John Millais. In this discussion, students notice the backgrounds, the textiles, the way they’re dressed, the facial features of the women, the patterns, the way the compositions are cropped, and the emotions.

The next set is a little harder than the first–three Rodin sculptures and one sculpture from Matisse. The most obvious different is the shine of the bronze, but students must dig deeper to find the answer. The Rodin ones are more realistic with detailed body features, muscles, skin, etc. The Rodins are more emotional and more raw. The Matisse is blank, more abstract, and looks more like a sculpture than the living, breathing Rodins. (You can tell I love Rodin, can’t you?)

After a few rounds of picking the different artwork, I switch things up. This time, I show 3-4 artworks by one artist and ask the students to study them carefully. They right down the stylistic characteristics they notice about the artist. For this step, I usually choose Rembrandt, because he has such a distinctive style.

We look at textures from Rembrandt, how he applied the paint thickly, his use of golds, red, and browns, the simple dark backgrounds, the raw emotion. After a few minutes of study, I switch the slide and show one Rembrandt that they haven’t seen alongside three other Northern Baroque period artists. I ask, which one is Rembrandt?

Each of the other artworks on the slide are from the same time period as Rembrandt so they have commonalities like the dark backgrounds, lit figures, similar color palette, genre scenes, etc.  Only one has the rich painterliness of Rembrandt. That is his style.

For a free copy of my lesson for this activity, click the button below.

Free PowerPoint!

How to Teach Style – Free PowerPoint Lesson

Teach students to “read” an artwork and understand the basics of style with this interactive lesson.

Download

Free PowerPoint!

How to Teach Style – Free PowerPoint Lesson

Teach students to “read” an artwork and understand the basics of style with this interactive lesson.

This post was originally published on January 2, 2017.

Filed Under: Art Connection Activities
Tagged With: auguste rodin, best of art class curator, dante gabriel rossetti, henri matisse, johannes vermeer, john millais, rembrandt

 

December 8, 2019 6 Comments

What Makes Art Good? A Lesson and Explanation of Art Theories

Art Theories-What Makes Art Good 700x1000

Inside: An explanation of four popular art theories and how each of them defines what makes a work of art good.

Art Theories-What Makes Art Good 700x1000

 

What makes an artwork good?

When it adheres to design principles?
If it looks true to life?
Should it turn our worldview upside down?
Must it fill us with emotions?

The issue of what makes an artwork good has probably been debated since the first splotch of pigment touched a cave wall.  It is nearly impossible to define what art is, so when we start discussing what makes an artwork impressive or worthy or good, we wade into complicated waters. Ask a group of students whether an individual artwork is good or not and you’re likely to get conflicting answers. Ask them what makes an artwork good or not and you’ll get as many answers as students you question.

Many art theories have emerged to encompass the wide variety of ideas and opinions about what art is and what it should do. The search for one art theory to rule them all may be futile, but there are arguments to be made on all sides, and everyone has a favorite.

Art Theory: Formalism

What Makes Art Good? A Lesson and Explanation of Art Theories
Wassily Kandinsky, Squares with Concentric Circles, 1913

 

Formalism dictates that art is good when it effectively uses the elements of art and principles of design. A formalist will concentrate solely on how an artwork looks–color, line, shape, and texture. The story being told and any historical or social context behind the artwork has no bearing on whether it is considered successful. The composition is all that matters. While artists have always used the elements and principles of art, formalism really came into being with modern art and the rise of abstract and expressionist works since those pieces put special emphasis on using line, shape, and color to create a pleasing composition.

Art Theory: Imitationalism / Mimetic

What Makes Art Good? A Lesson and Explanation of Art Theories
Johannes Vermeer, The Milkmaid, 1658

 

The imitationalism or mimetic theory of art claims that artwork is best when it imitates life. We’ve all experienced seeing an artwork from a distance and mistaking it for the real thing, rather than a replica. Those pieces are prized under imitationalism. The most realistic, the better.

In Vermeer’s The Milkmaid, we see the creamy milk pouring from the jug. It’s easy to imagine the splashing sound it makes hitting the bottom of the container. The texture of the baskets and the woman’s clothing look real enough to reach out and touch. The play of light and shadows match what comes through our own windows. We don’t have to make any mental leaps to imagine the scene unfolding right in front of us. Mimetic artworks are instantly recognizable because of their devotion to reality.

Art Theory: Instrumentalism

What Makes Art Good? A Lesson and Explanation of Art Theories
John Heartfield, Have no fear–He’s a Vegetarian, 1936

 

An instrumentalist is not concerned with composition, only context. Through the lens of instrumentalism, the best artworks are those that convey a message or shape how we see the world. Unlike other art theories, instrumentalism says that art is good when it functions as a tool to influence or change society.

The artwork above no doubt drew a visceral reaction the moment you saw it. Did your eyes flick to the title? Were you trying to figure out what the artist was trying to say? Now imagine that you saw this artwork before World War II. As Hitler rose to power, many saw him as a harmless politician, though some knew otherwise. In this piece, Heartfield was using his art as an instrument, sounding an alarm for anyone who thought Hitler was nothing to fear.

Art Theory: Emotionalism

What Makes Art Good? A Lesson and Explanation of Art Theories
Franz Marc, Fate of the Animals, 1913

 

The emotionalism theory places emphasis on the expressive qualities of an artwork. The communication between artwork and viewer is crucial. If the art is able to elicit a feeling from the audience, then the artist has created an excellent piece. Emotionalism is unique among art theories because it is not concerned with how an observer is attracted. Varying components of an artwork can captivate different viewers, but it only matters that the artist was able to evoke a mood or idea, regardless of composition, context, or narrative.

Read more about Fate of the Animals on Art Class Curator.

Art Theories Lesson

To teach about art theories in a quick art and aesthetics lesson, I start out with a warm-up discussion question, what makes art an artwork good? I like this question because it gets students thinking more about what goes into the creation of a work of art and that art is more than just making something look pretty.

Then, I divide the students into groups and each group gets one of the above artworks with the following writing prompts:

  • Make a list of questions you might ask yourself about this art.
  • What makes this artwork good?

After they’ve explored their assigned artwork, we discuss their ideas to the class and I tell them about each of the art theories.

Curated Connections Library Members: Access the PowerPoint and Worksheet for this activity at this link. 

What do you think makes an artwork good?

This post was originally published on June 7, 2018.

Get the Full Lesson!

This Lesson is in The Curated Connections Library!

Find the full lesson from this post along with hundreds of other art teaching resources and trainings in the Curated Connections Library. Click here for more information about how to join or enter your email below for a free SPARKworks lesson from the membership!

Join the List

Get the Full Lesson!

This Lesson is in The Curated Connections Library!

Find the full lesson from this post along with hundreds of other art teaching resources and trainings in the Curated Connections Library. Click here for more information about how to join or enter your email below for a free SPARKworks lesson from the membership!

Filed Under: Art Connection Activities
Tagged With: best of art class curator, franz marc, johannes vermeer, john heartfield, wassily kandinsky

 

September 24, 2019 3 Comments

I am… Dorothea Lange: Exploring Empathy Art Lesson

empathy art

Inside: Explore empathy art with this photography analysis activity. Students study the photography of Dorothea Lange, consider the thoughts and feelings, and write an empathy art poem from the perspective of the people in the photographs.

My 8th-grade boys don’t open doors for me. The girls do. The 6th, 7th, and 9th-grade boys do, but not those stinkin’ 8th-grade boys. It’s a weird phenomenon that I’m sure is explained by science somewhere, but when I’m walking through campus with my rolling cart filled to the brim (because I am an art-on-the-cart teacher for now), my hands full, my backpack on, and the wind blowing the door so it’s hard to pull open, the boys just go on through without stopping to consider who is behind or even in front of them.

What these boys need is some empathy! Looking at art can help with that.

empathy art

Last semester in a photography unit for my 8th-graders, I brought out the “I am” character poem activity from my pack of printable worksheets to study the work of Dorothea Lange, the mastermind behind the Migrant Mother and other powerful photographs from the WPA and the Great Depression.

empathy art
Dorothea Lange, Migrant Mother, 1936

As an art teacher, it is important for me to give my students experience connecting with works of art–which includes connecting with the characters and people in the artworks. Dorothea Lange was a photographer hired by the Resettlement Administration and the Farm Security Administration to document the lives of migrant workers, displaced families, and families in Japanese internment camps. Because her photographs were government-funded, they were offered for free to newspapers across the country, and her images were seen nationwide.

She had a masterful way of capturing emotion in her subjects, so her photographs are an excellent way for students to practice empathy while also connecting with the art, the past, and the people in the photograph.

Free Worksheet!

I am… Character Poem

Explore empathy in art with these free worksheets. Students write empathy art poems from the perspective of the people in Dorothea Lange’s photographs.

Download

Free Worksheet!

I am… Character Poem

Explore empathy in art with these free worksheets. Students write empathy art poems from the perspective of the people in Dorothea Lange’s photographs.

Dorothea Lange, Unemployed Lumber Man, 1939

Empathy Art Poem

In the “I am” character poem activity, I invited students to think as if they were one of the characters in the artwork and answer a series of prompts such as:

  • “I am…”
  • “I see…”
  • “I hear…”
  • “I feel…”
  • “I wonder…”
  • “I want…”
  • “I say…”
  • “I dream…”

empathy in art

Using clues given to us by the artists, students can come up with profound meanings for the artworks (or they can put “I want Taco Bell” which happened of course from one of the groups of boys. I’m not going to lie.).

empathy in art

 

I did this activity with students working in partners. After they created their poems, they read them to the class while we all looked at the art. After each poem, I led a short discussion inviting thoughts from the class about each photo.

empathy in art

 

Once we finished with all of the group presentations, I asked what all of the images had in common and what we can learn about the photographer based on all of these images. This launched us into a lesson on Dorothea Lange, art during the Great Depression, and debate whether or not the camera has the ability to capture the essence of a person. For example, what can’t a camera show about a person?

Artwork of the Week Lesson: Dorothea Lange, Migrant Mother

This is a complete lesson with discussion questions, talking points, activities, and project ideas for Dorothea Lange’s Migrant Mother.

Buy Now
 

This blog was originally posted on January 8, 2017.

Mentioned on the Art Class Curator Podcast…

Subscribe in Your Favorite Podcast Listening App

 

Filed Under: Art and Artists, Art Connection Activities, Downloads and Resources
Tagged With: best of art class curator, dorothea lange

 

September 10, 2019 2 Comments

5 Tips for Meaningful Classroom Art Discussion

Inside: Five tips for how to lead a classroom art discussion that will get your students thinking about and enjoying works of art.

Meaningful Classroom Art Discussion

Looking at art is an inspirational and emotional experience. Talking about art is a launching pad for creativity, collaboration, and cognition. A meaningful classroom art discussion helps students develop empathy, flex thinking and observation skills, connect with history, and savor the human spirit.

But the idea of leading such a discussion fills many art teachers with dread.

Where do I start?
What if my students don’t say anything?
What if they ask a question I don’t know the answer to?

Fear not! Students want to look at artwork and they have a lot to say about it. Your classroom can become a place where vital, interesting discussions about art happen regularly with these five tips.

1. Choose a Compelling Artwork

The goal here is not to pick an artwork that all of your students will love. That’s an impossible task! The goal is to choose an artwork that will spark questions and is open to interpretation.

5 Tips for Meaningful Classroom Art Discussion
Frida Kahlo, The Two Fridas, 1939

 

I love showing The Two Fridas to students. There’s so much going on that their minds race at first sight.

Why are there two?
Are they sisters? Twins?
Why are they holding hands?
What’s going on with the hearts?

No two discussions about The Two Fridas will be alike and that makes it a perfect artwork to share with your students.

When choosing art to discuss, look for pieces that catch your eye and make you wonder what’s going on. If you’re curious, your students will be too.

Free Worksheets!

SPARK Art Criticism Framework

SPARK is a complete art criticism and discussion framework that ignites deeper student art connections and more engaging classroom art discussions. Download these free SPARK posters plus a worksheet to use in your classroom!

Download

Free Worksheets!

SPARK Art Criticism Framework

SPARK is a complete art criticism and discussion framework that ignites deeper student art connections and more engaging classroom art discussions. Download these free SPARK posters plus a worksheet to use in your classroom!

2. Let Them Think

Some students will be bursting with thoughts. Others need space to let their ideas build. Give them all time to gather their thoughts by having a silent observation period at the beginning of class. Students can write down what they notice, answer a question you pose, or sketch the artwork. These bellringers allow them to focus and brainstorm before they’re influenced by their classmates.

5 Tips for Meaningful Classroom Art Discussion

A vital part of getting students to engage is giving them the freedom and support to have their own ideas without fear of being wrong or ridiculed. Create a classroom culture that celebrates differences of opinion and doesn’t hold any one interpretation up over another (even the opinion of you, the artist, the museum, or an art historian).

To encourage open conversation, consider not sharing the title or other information about the artwork. If you do, wait until the discussion has taken off and with the reminder that there are no “right” answers.

3. Engage

You want to give your students the freedom to be open, but you can’t stay silent and facilitate a meaningful classroom art discussion. So, what do you do?

Ask & Repeat

When a student tells you one of their observations, repeat it back to them and ask questions to make sure you understand what they’re saying. Don’t be afraid to dive deep and ask multiple questions. When students are heard and understood, they’re more likely to speak up again.

If you get a question about interpretation instead of an observation, direct it back to the student. For example, if they ask why the two Fridas are holding hands, ask them what they think.

You don’t have to praise every comment to encourage your students. No one likes to receive forced or false praise. The simple act of listening and repeating to show you’ve understood is more than enough.

Move

When I’m teaching, I constantly move around the room. When a student is speaking, I stand near them so they know that I’m listening. I want every student, including the introverts and the ones at the back of the room, to know that they are a part of the discussion and expected to share their thoughts.

5 Tips for Meaningful Classroom Art Discussion

This strategy works great for behavior and to keep everyone on track. If they know you could walk by them at any moment, they are more likely to stay involved.

4. Get Comfortable with Quiet

Silence doesn’t mean the discussion is over. Allow those moments for students to ruminate and observe more. These stretches are a great opportunity for more reserved students to gather the courage to speak up.

If you start to feel uncomfortable, take a breath. Choose a student who hasn’t said much, then make and maintain eye contact. Embrace the awkward. Even if it takes a minute, someone will get the ball rolling again.

If you have a particular class that struggles with open discussion, carry a clipboard and take note of when someone makes a comment or goes off-task. You don’t have to announce it. Just make eye contact and write an ‘x’ or a check. They’ll notice and begin participating on their own. Another option is to call on students directly through something like drawing names out of a bucket. These are handy tools but rarely necessary.

5. Have Fun

If you have stage fright, rest easy. This isn’t a lecture. You don’t have to do all the work or know all the facts. If you don’t know an answer, ponder with the students and share the joy of discovery and creativity.

Enjoying art and the desire to share that joy is why you became an art teacher. This is the dream! A teacher’s enthusiasm is especially beneficial to a classroom art discussion. Your passion will spread to your class. Celebrate the process of discovering an artwork together and delight in your students as they show their creative, thoughtful, humorous selves.

 

Art Teacher Blogs

 

This post was originally a part of The Art Ed Blogger’s Network: Monthly Tips and Inspiration from Art Teacher Blogs.

Participating Art Teacher Blogs:

  • Art Class Curator
  • Art Ed Guru
  • Art is Basic
  • Art Room Blog
  • Art Teacher Tales
  • Art with Mr. E
  • Arte a Scuola
  • Brava Art Press
  • Artful Artsy Amy
  • Capitol of Creativity
  • Create Art with ME
  • MiniMatisse
  • Mona Lisa Lives Here
  • Mr. Calvert’s Art Room Happenings
  • Mrs. Boudreaux’s Amazing Art Room
  • Mrs. T’s Art Room
  • Ms. Nasser’s Art Studio
  • Party in the Art Room
  • shine brite zamorano
  • Tales from the Traveling Art Teacher
  • There’s a Dragon in my Art Room
  • 2 Art Rooms

This blog was originally posted on May 8, 2018.

Mentioned on the Art Class Curator Podcast…

Subscribe in Your Favorite Podcast Listening App

Filed Under: Art Ed Blogger's Network, Art Teacher Tips
Tagged With: best of art class curator, frida kahlo

 

July 30, 2019 2 Comments

6 Juicy Artworks for the First Day of School

Art Discussion First Day of School

Inside: Six works of art with discussion questions and creative activities that make perfect first day of school art activities for art teachers of any grade.

Art Discussion First Day of School

August is coming…

I know.

Summer just started! You’ve barely had a chance to sunbathe or swim, and yet it’s almost time to attend in-service meetings, set up your classroom (or reorganize your cart for the thousandth time), and figure out how to make your favorite projects fit into the new lesson planning requirements (again).

There’s so much to do and the calendar is mocking you. Why, oh why, can’t you cram in a little weekend getaway? You just need a few days days to relax. Please?

Preparing for Back-to-School

Nevertheless, as you move through the stages of back-to-school grief, you remember all the things you love–the students you adore, the insightful comments and outstanding art, the silly jokes, your family of coworkers, the helpful volunteers, and those precious moments when you watch knowledge light up a student’s life.

The new school year will be exhilarating, exhausting, frustrating, and wonderful. And before you worry too much about what to do when you’re faced with class after class of familiar and brand new faces, let me help you out!

I won’t tell you how important it is to start the school year off strong, you already know. (And, if you’ve forgotten, I’m sure the many staff meetings you’re about to attend will remind you.) The school year is a marathon, not a sprint, and while getting off on the wrong foot won’t doom your year, it will make it harder to hit your stride. So, set the stage for stellar behavior with classroom management techniques, then show your students that art class is for more than making art–it’s for thinking critically about works of art and exploring the worlds both within and around them.

First Day of School Art Activities

Every year, I see frenzied Facebook discussions with art teachers trying to determine which project will not only get the kids hooked but also be feasible for the first day of school art activities. A lot of great ideas are thrown around, but I think there’s a easier way to get them excited.

Surprise your students by introducing them to a rich, fascinating work of art. A lot of teachers tell me that their biggest fear about incorporating more artworks and art history into their curriculum is the prospect of students being upset because they aren’t making their own art. That’s why the first day of school is such a great time to do this! When you set the expectation from the very first day***, your students won’t be confused, and they’ll know just how fun it can be! (***Or, the first week. Because goodness knows the attendance rolls will get mixed up, or you’ll have a dozen dress code infractions, and WHAT?! The bell is ringing already?!)

Let your students know:

Art class is more than just making art. We look at art and we talk about it together. We do this a lot.

And it. is. AWESOME.

Without further ado, here are six of my favorite artworks to share with students on the first day of school. Each one offers a lot for your classes to sink their teeth into and whet their appetite for the rest of the year! I’ve included links to blog posts that go into more depth for each piece and included some fun activities in case you’ve got enviable free time on the first day of school.

Also, check out my tips for an engaging classroom art discussion in this post.

The Two Fridas by Frida Kahlo

first day of school art activities
Frida Kahlo, The Two Fridas, 1939

I’ve used this as the first artwork of the school year before, and the students loved it!

Beyond Discussion

Have students write dialogue between the two Fridas. Then, pair them up to act out their scripts in front of the class!

Find discussion questions and more for The Two Fridas in this blog post.

Closed by Sorcery by Luis Felipe Noe

artworks for first day of school art class
Closed by Sorcery, Luis Felipe Noé, 1963

This artwork is perfect for older students. There are a lot of juicy details, deep emotions, and a bit of shock value to analyze and interpret.

Beyond Discussion

Instruct students to write a poem from the point of view of the person at the top of the artwork.

Find more activities and some discussion questions on this blog post about Closed by Sorcery.

Fate of the Animals by Franz Marc

What Makes Art Good? A Lesson and Explanation of Art Theories
Franz Marc, Fate of the Animals, 1913

This artwork is a stunning mixture of brilliant color and raw emotion. There are multiple points to discuss, everything from the elements and principles of art to the cool World War I context. It’s a great pick for students from 3rd grade on up to high school.

Beyond Discussion

Ask students to ponder the nature of the creature in the top right hand corner. Then, have them write a narrative about the man/machine.

Find more information and teaching resources for Fate of the Animals in this blog post.

Nkisi Nkondi Power Figures from the Kongo people

These powerhouse sculptures are fascinating to students of all ages. They’ll be intrigued imagining the possible functions of the figures.

Beyond Discussion

Students will enjoy getting out of their seats for a kinesthetic activity! Getting up and positioning themselves in the poses of the sculptures often opens their minds to new interpretive possibilities.

Learn more about the Nkisi Nkondi Power Figures, along with discussion questions and creative learning activities, on this blog post.

Parson Weems’ Fable by Grant Wood

Grant Wood, Parson Weems Fable - first day of school art activities
Parson Weems’ Fable, Grant Wood, 1939

Many years ago, I was a Gallery Teacher at the Amon Carter Museum where this painting resides. This one was so fun to explore with students—the lines that all point to mini-George Washington, the repetition of shapes, the role of the narrator, and the awesome dollar-bill style head on the child George’s body. Not to mention the myth and the story behind it!

Beyond Discussion

After pointing out some of the shapes and discussing the role of emphasis lines in art, have students draw the ones they see in this artwork.

Explore the elements and principles in Parson Weems Fable and find matching discussion questions in this blog post.

Selim and Zuleika by Eugène Delacroix

Selim and Zuleika, Eugène Delacroix, 1857

This artwork is perfect for an art interpretation discussion, because it has tons of narrative, excellent usage of the elements and principles of art that contribute to the meaning, and some great opportunities for detective work by the students.

Beyond Discussion

Group students and have them create a tableaux vivant of what they think happened before, during, and after this scene.

Find a free printable and a discussion video for Selim and Zuleika on this blog post.

Are you hyped yet? I hope so! Either way, let me know how it goes, especially if you share one of these breathtaking artworks with your students. If you have another work you love for first day of school art activities, I’d love to know about that too!

6 Juicy Artworks to Discuss on the First Day of School

This post was a part of The Art Ed Blogger’s Network: Monthly Tips and Inspiration from Art Teacher Blogs.

Participating Art Teacher Blogs:

  • Art Class Curator
  • Art Ed Guru
  • Art is Basic
  • Art Room Blog
  • Art with Mr. E
  • Arte a Scuola
  • Brava Art Press
  • Artful Artsy Amy
  • Capitol of Creativity
  • Create Art with ME
  • MiniMatisse
  • Mona Lisa Lives Here
  • Mr. Calvert’s Art Room Happenings
  • Mrs. Boudreaux’s Amazing Art Room
  • Mrs. T’s Art Room
  • Ms. Nasser’s Art Studio
  • Party in the Art Room
  • shine brite zamorano
  • Tales from the Traveling Art Teacher
  • There’s a Dragon in my Art Room

This post was originally published on July 10, 2018.

Filed Under: Art and Artists, Art Ed Blogger's Network
Tagged With: best of art class curator, eugene delacroix, franz marc, frida kahlo, grant wood, luis felipe noe

 

June 25, 2019 4 Comments

Teaching Art History Without Lecture: Classical Sculpture Analysis Lesson

Classical Sculpture Analysis Lesson

Inside: In this Ancient Roman & Ancient Greek sculpture lesson, students learn about art history through an interactive activity.

Classical Sculpture Analysis Lesson

As a long-time teacher, I have a handful of lessons that I know always work. I can pick up these lessons and give them anytime and know that they will lead to engaged students, thoughtful discussions, and fun learning. Today, I am going to tell you about one of these lessons — an all-time favorite activity that I developed for teaching art history.

But first, indulge me with a little bit of a rant.

A Short Rant about Art History Lesson Plans

Have you ever noticed that in lesson plan after lesson plan for art history, they ALWAYS start with “explain the art history to the students?” Every time, the lesson tells us to teach about the art/artist/art history, and THEN do this activity or art project or whatever. This drives me nuts. We need to take art history out of the dark lecture halls and find fun ways to teach it that don’t involved us standing in front of the room with a PowerPoint.

It has been one of my goals throughout my career to find ways to teach art history that do not start with lecture or reading. I want students to figure it out on their own first. I want them to look and analyze and notice and compare and categorize and think and wonder. I want them to figure out and understand the conventions of the art period or movement before I give them a list of basic characteristics.

Okay, thanks for letting me get this off my chest. Onward.

Laocoön and his sons, also known as the Laocoön Group, Copy after Hellenistic original of c. 200 BCE, Ancient Greek Sculpture Lesson
Laocoön and his sons, also known as the Laocoön Group, Copy after Hellenistic original of c. 200 BCE

Get the Full Lesson!

This Lesson is in The Curated Connections Library!

Find the full lesson from this post along with hundreds of other art teaching resources and trainings in the Curated Connections Library. Click here for more information about how to join or enter your email below for a free SPARKworks lesson from the membership!

Join the List

Get the Full Lesson!

This Lesson is in The Curated Connections Library!

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Classical Sculpture Lesson

Side Note: This is all nudity today, so if that is something you are avoiding for whatever reason, you probably want to skip this lesson. You can’t teach Classical Sculpture without nudes. Here is my post about nudity if you are interested in my thoughts about nudity in art.

Recommended Age: High School and College. I’ve done this with 6th grade as well with a smaller amount of images.

Time Needed: This lesson usually fills a full 1 hour and 20 minute class for me at the community college. You could easily split it into two parts if you have shorter class periods.

Objective

The objective of this lesson is to teach the conventions of the main periods/styles of Ancient Greek and Ancient Roman sculpture: Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic, Roman Imperial Portraits, and Roman Sculptural Realism. Instead of teaching the different periods and pointing out the differences, I like to throw a bunch of pictures at the students, and have them work in groups to figure it out on their own.

Lesson Procedure

In this classical sculpture printable, you will find 20 pictures of sculpture from Ancient Greece and Rome. Here’s what I do. This is written for a full class of students, because that is what I used it for, but you can adapt this as an individual activity for homeschool of course.

Augustus of Prima Porta, 1st century CE, Photo by Till Niermann, Ancient Greek Sculpture Lesson
Augustus of Prima Porta, 1st century CE, Photo by Till Niermann

1. Before class: Print the images (one set of images per group). See bottom of this post for the link to download the needed files. Cut out the photos (or have the students do it) and put each set in its own envelope.

2. Divide the class into groups of 3-4 and distribute one set of images to each group along with the instructions and worksheet.

3. Instruct the groups to divide the images into 5 groups of 4 images each in whatever groups they want. Tell them they have to come up with the groups and the categories on their own. They have to study each artwork in order to find similarities and differences.

4. Give the students time to complete the activity. Have each group fill out one worksheet that lists which artworks are in each group and why they chose the groups they did (what do the images in the group have in common?).

5. Have the students lay the images on the desks or tables for everyone to see when they are finished. Have all the students stand up and tour the room noticing how each group divided the groups, and then have each group present to class their categories and criteria for the sculpture groups. The students really enjoy seeing how their groups differ from the rest of the class’s groups.

6. Optional: I just came up with this idea right now, but I haven’t tested it. You could at this point pass out a sheet with the correct answers on it, and then have the students compare the correct ones with theirs. This may take too long though as this lesson already takes a good amount of time as is.

7. Review the correct answers with the class using the PowerPoint (download below). Explain the different periods and have students comment on and discuss the similarities that unite the groups together.

8. I usually follow this with a little assessment at the end or at the beginning of the next class period and show some pictures and have the students tell me which period it is from. That is not included in this resource.

When I say this is a “successful lesson,” I don’t mean the students ever get the groups correct. They hardly ever do, but the point of the lesson is not “correctness.” The goal is to get them looking carefully, analyzing, and thinking about art. They are now much more likely to remember these sculptures, because they have thought about them, done something with them, and talked about them. Although they weren’t correct at the beginning, the students do very well at identifying the different styles after the lesson! 

Art Downloads for this Lesson

If you are a member of the Curated Connections Library, you can get this lesson and all of my other resources for one monthly or yearly fee. Membership to the Curated Connections Library opens twice per year! Find out more information here and join the waitlist to get first dibs on your membership.

You can also buy this lesson along with units on Ancient Greece and Rome at the below link.

Classical Sculpture, Ancient Greek, & Ancient Rome Lesson Bundle

In these lessons, students will learn about the art of Ancient Greece & Ancient Rome. Plus, get a complete Classical Sculpture lesson with an interactive activity to empower students to figure out the conventions on their own!

Buy Now

Try it out, and let me know how it goes! What is your favorite activity to teach art history without lecture?

Mentioned on the Art Class Curator Podcast…

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This post was originally published on January 19, 2015.

Filed Under: Art and Artists, Art Connection Activities
Tagged With: best of art class curator

 

June 4, 2019 6 Comments

10 Fun Kinesthetic Activities to Do with Art

Inside: Ten fun kinesthetic activities to help students connect with works of art.

Kinesthetic Activities with Art

One of the best ways for young people to connect with artworks is through movement. Exploring art with their bodies helps students connect with the art and artists by helping them clearly understand the emotions, actions, and conventions. It makes them think about the art in new ways and best of all, it’s fun! Here are some kinesthetic activities to get students moving and inspired by artworks.

A few years ago, I did a conference presentation for Education Closet about Kinesthetic Art Connections. Check out the video here, and then see the list of kinesthetic activities below!

Kinesthetic Activities

N’kisi Nkondi Power Figures from the Kongo People of Western-Central Africa

1. Have students pose as the characters in a painting or sculpture and discuss how it feels.

2. Make a tableau vivant (a living picture).

3. Play charades.

4. Have a conversation about the artwork through pantomime only. (Gestures only — no words!)

Wassily Kandinsky, Composition 8, 1923

5. Create a dance inspired by the artwork. (This one is especially fun with abstract art!)

6. Trace the lines in an artwork with your finger in the air.

7. Get up and look at the artwork from far away, up close, down below, and from the side and notice how the artwork changes depending on where you look at it from.

8. Make the shapes in the artwork using your body and work with others to make the shapes you can’t.

Pablo Picasso, Girl Before a Mirror, 1932
Pablo Picasso, Girl Before a Mirror, 1932

9. Play mirror. Have one student have their back to the artwork and one student facing the art and the other student. Have the student who can see the artwork do movements from the art, and have the one with their back to the work mirror the moving student.

10. If you have a group of students, form a line and have all the students work together to mimic the lines and shapes in the artwork.

Theater Games

If you want more creative games to play with kids, traditional theater games are always fun to adapt to studying art. Check out this book about theater games which includes 130 theater games, music and videos, and learning standards. It’s an amazing resource for the classroom–and not just for theater teachers!

**As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Theater Games for the Classroom: A Teacher’s Handbook

Kinesthetic Art Activities

Try these kinesthetic activities out and let me know how it goes in the comments.

This post was originally published on February 9th, 2015.

Filed Under: Art Connection Activities
Tagged With: best of art class curator

 

February 21, 2019 1 Comment

Teaching the Past, Creating the Future: Black History Month Art Lessons

Inside: A collection of posts and resources with artworks by Black artists, civil rights art, African art, art projects, book suggestions, and more to teach Black History art lessons.

black history month art lessons

When students are exposed to a variety of works of art, they learn about the world and themselves. Children deserve to see the wide variety of possibilities in art, both in terms of art making and the artists behind the works. 

Black History Month is a time to discuss the history and celebrate the contributions of Black culture and individuals. These lessons should not be kept solely in the history classroom. Looking at art helps students develop empathy, flex thinking and observation skills, connect with history, get in touch with their creative side, and savor the human spirit. Black History Month offers art teachers a fantastic opportunity to feature Black artists and artworks about Black history in their classroom.

To support art teachers and ensure that they have a variety of artworks to choose from, this post is a collection of Black History Month art lessons from Art Class Curator, all of which you’ll find links to below. Most of the posts include looking questions, tips, information, and resources to help you teach the works of art.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Free Printable Art Worksheets

black history month art lessons

The more time students spend looking at art, the easier it is for them to explore the narratives, techniques, and meanings behind the artworks. Take learning to a deeper level with a ready-to-go art lessons from the Art Appreciation Worksheet Bundle.

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3!
1. Pick a Black history artwork below
2. Print one of the Art Appreciation Worksheets
3. Watch with joy as your students connect with and interpret art

Free Worksheets

8 Free Art Appreciation Worksheets

includes the Elements & Principles!

Download 8 Free Art Appreciation Worksheets – including 2 Elements and Principles pages! Activities designed to work with almost any work of art. Help your students connect with art while having fun!

Download

Free Worksheets

8 Free Art Appreciation Worksheets

includes the Elements & Principles!

Download 8 Free Art Appreciation Worksheets – including 2 Elements and Principles pages! Activities designed to work with almost any work of art. Help your students connect with art while having fun!

Black History Month Art Lessons

This list of Black history month art lessons is of course not a full representation of all Black artists. These are the artists we have written about to date on Art Class Curator. We will update this post as we create new resources!

Black Artists

Kehinde Wiley

Kehinde Wiley is an American artist known for his powerful portraits of African Americans. He was chosen to paint Barack Obama’s official presidential portrait in 2018.

black history month art lessons
Kehinde Wiley, Barack Obama, 2018

Kehinde Wiley Art Lesson

Wiley is best known for painting young Black people, often placing them in into versions of portraits from art history. His paintings fuse the past and present in ways that force us to confront our notions of wealth, importance, race, and gender. In this lesson, put a Wiley artwork next to the artwork is was inspired by and lead an art discussion. This Kehinde Wiley Art Lesson blog post includes discussion questions, interpretation activities, as well as classroom extensions.

Lesson: Portraits for a New Century: Kehinde Wiley Art Lesson

black history month art lessons
Comparing Mary, Comforter of the Afflicted I, 2016, with the original

Betye Saar

Betye Saar is an American artist known for her assemblage and collage artworks.

Betye Saar Art Lesson

Saar uses stereotypical and potentially-offensive material to make social commentary, which makes her work an excellent way to teach kids about the world, acceptance, and empathy. In this lesson, students discuss an assemblage Saar created around a depiction of Aunt Jemima and watch a video of the artist discussing the work. This Betye Saar Art Lesson also includes several project ideas and extensions.

Lesson: The Liberation of Aunt Jemima

black history month art lessons
Betye Saar, The Liberation of Aunt Jemima, 1972

Augusta Savage

Augusta Savage was an American sculptor and prominent member of the Harlem Renaissance in New York City. She opened her own studio and became an influential teacher.

Augusta Savage Art Lesson

There have been few sculptors who can capture emotion in a subject like Augusta Savage. In this Augusta Savage Art Lesson, students learn about her life, discuss some of her work, and read In Her Hands: The Story of Sculptor.

Lesson: The Art of Augusta Savage
Artist Biography

black history month art lessons
Augusta Savage, The Harp, 1939

Faith Ringgold

Faith Ringgold is an award-winning American painter, writer, sculptor, and performance artist. She is best known for her narrative quilts.

Faith Ringgold Art Lesson

Ringgold started out as a painter and focused much of her art on telling the stories of the Civil Rights Movement and her experiences growing up in Harlem. On a trip to Europe in 1972, Ringgold experiences some Nepali artworks that used fabrics around the border. This inspired her to start making quilt paintings, and those are the artworks she’s become best known for. In this Faith Ringgold Art Lesson, students dive into Ringgold’s The Sunflower Quilting Bee at Arles and imagine what it would be like to be the fictional woman featured in the artwork. To extend the lesson, students complete a portrait project and read Dinner at Aunt Connie’s House or one of Ringgold’s other children’s books.

Lesson: Faith Ringgold’s Celebration of African American Women
Artist Biography

black history month art lessons
Faith Ringgold, The Sunflower Quilting Bee at Arles, 1991

Ed Johnetta Miller

Ed Johnetta Miller is is a renowned American fiber artist, quilter, and teacher who regularly works within her community. Her work is often inspired by color, patterns, and jazz music.

Ed Johnetta Miller Art Lesson

One of Miller’s community art projects was an improvisational quilt completed with the children and families of Yale New Haven’s Children’s Hospital.

Lesson: Community Art Project Inspired by Ed Johnetta Miller

Ed Johnetta Miller, Journey to Our Hearts Home, 2017
Ed Johnetta Miller, Journey to Our Hearts Home, 2017

Get the Full Lesson!

This Lesson is in The Curated Connections Library!

Find the full lesson from this post along with hundreds of other art teaching resources and trainings in the Curated Connections Library. Click here for more information about how to join or enter your email below for a free SPARKworks lesson from the membership!

Join the List

Get the Full Lesson!

This Lesson is in The Curated Connections Library!

Find the full lesson from this post along with hundreds of other art teaching resources and trainings in the Curated Connections Library. Click here for more information about how to join or enter your email below for a free SPARKworks lesson from the membership!

Romare Bearden

Romare Bearden was an American artist and author who created cartoons, oil paintings, and collages. He grew up in New York City during the Harlem Renaissance.

Romare Bearden Art Lesson

Featured in Multicultural Kid Blogs, this Romare Bearden Art Lesson recaps Bearden’s life, explores his art, and includes a collection of projects, books, and lessons.

Lesson: The Art of Romare Bearden

black history month art lessons
Romare Bearden, Factory Workers, 1942

Henry Ossawa Tanner

Henry Ossawa Tanner was a world-renowned American artist best known for his religious artworks.

Henry Ossawa Tanner Art Lesson

This Henry Ossawa Tanner Art Lesson features several artworks from the man who was “one of the first African-American artists to achieve a reputation in both America and Europe”. Six of Tanner’s artworks are presented for use with the Charlotte Mason Picture Study Technique.

Lesson: Henry Ossawa Tanner
Artist Biography

black history month art lessons
Henry Ossawa Tanner, The Banjo Lesson, 1893

Yinka Shonibare

Yinka Shonibare is a British-Nigerian artist whose work delves into cultural identities, colonialism, and globalisation. He is best known for his sculptural installations.

Yinka Shonibare Art Lesson

The Swing is Jean-Honoré Fragonard’s best known work and is an icon of the Rococo style. Shonibare recreated the famous artwork and gave us a lot to think about regarding race, class, and multiculturalism. In this Yinka Shonibare Art Lesson, students compare and contrast the two artworks.

Lesson: Yinka Shonibare’s The Swing: Culture & Identity in a Global Society

black history art
Yinka Shonibare, The Swing (after Fragonard)

Prince Twins Seven-Seven

Prince Twins Seven-Seven was a Nigerian painter, musician, actor, writer, and poet. He was named a UNESCO Artist for Peace in 2005.

Prince Twins Seven-Seven Art Lesson

In this Prince Twins Seven-Seven Art Lesson, students consider his Healing of Abiko Children, watch a video of the artist discussing the artwork, and can read a book about his art and life.

Lesson: Twins Seven-Seven’s Healing of Abiko Children

black history art
Twins Seven Seven, Healing of Abiko Children, 1973

Black History Month Art Projects

The internet outside of Art Class Curator has lots of great Black history month art lessons as well! Check out these links.

  • Freedom Quilts by Colors of my Day — Upper Elementary students create quilt squares and write poems or short stories based on the book The Patchwork Patch: A Quilt Map to Freedom.
  • Grades K-1: Art Projects for Black History Month by Scholastic — Four art projects for young elementary students inspired by famous Black individuals.
  • Historical Genre Drawing Silhouettes by Incredible @rt Department — Inspired by Kara Walker’s silhouettes, middle to high school students research a historical event and create an silhouettes based on the subject and insert their likeness into the work.
  • Jean-Michel Basquiat, Jazz-Inspired Painting, Mind Maps, and Getting Your Work Out There by Lauren Rouatt — 3rd grade students learn about Jean-Michel Basquiat and create paintings inspired by his work.
  • Basquiat-Inspired Self-Portraits by Art Room Britt — Early elementary students look at and discuss Basquiat’s work, then create self-portraits with free-association elements.
  • Horace Pippin Imagination Drawings by Deep Space Sparkle — Upper elementary students create self-portraits based on Pippin’s work and inspired by the book, A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin.
  • Horace Pippin Lesson Plan by Trish Maunder — An art-making workshop designed for students in grades 3-6, based on Pippin’s The Domino Players.
  • Decoding Jacob Lawrence by The Art of Education — Upper elementary students analyze Lawrence’s Forward, reflect on Harriet Tubman and the institution of slavery, and create an artwork that tells an important story.
  • Jacob Lawrence’s Painted Stories by Crayola — Upper elementary students learn about Lawrence’s life, research a significant historical event, and create an artwork based on what they learn.

Children’s Books about Black Artists

This collection of highly rated children’s books about Black artists are a wonderful way to share information about the lives of Black artists with elementary students. Each book is marked with recommended student ages and a link to purchase the book.

  • 4-8 Year Olds
  • 5-8 Year Olds
  • 4-8 Year Olds
  • 6-8 Year Olds
  • 6-9 Year Olds
  • 6-8 Year Olds
  • 6-7 Year Olds
  • 6-11 Year Olds
  • 6-12 Year Olds
  • 5-8 Year Olds
  • 5-8 Year Olds
  • 6-9 Year Olds
  • 4-7 Year Olds
  • Ages 10 and up
  • 4-8 Year Olds

Famous Black Artists Biographies

Integrate historical and cultural knowledge into your Black History Month art lessons with in-depth biographies and short videos about famous Black artists.

  • Augusta Savage
  • Edmonia Lewis
  • Jacob Lawrence
  • Jean-Michel Basquiat
  • James Van Der Zee
  • Henry Ossawa Tanner
  • Faith Ringgold
  • Lorna Simpson
  • Betye Saar
  • Gwendolyn Bennett
  • E. Simms Campbell
  • Gordon Parks
  • Kara Walker

Civil Rights Art

Art is such a vital tool to understanding the emotions, beliefs, and ideas of people throughout history. Art gives us insights into people like no other medium can. Consider using artworks about the Civil Rights era from the collections below for your Black History Month art lessons.

  • Civil Rights Art
  • More Civil Rights Movement Art
black history art

Black History Month Art Lessons

From native African art to modern artworks by Black artists from around the world, these pieces will get your students talking and connected to art.

African American Artists

  • Portraits for a New Century: Kehinde Wiley Art Lesson
  • The Liberation of Aunt Jemima 
  • The Art of Augusta Savage
  • Faith Ringgold’s Celebration of African American Women
  • The Art of Romare Bearden
  • Henry Ossawa Tanner
  • Discrimination is Not Protection by Lorna Simpson
  • Ladder for Booker T. Washington by Martin Puryear
black history art
Martin Puryear, Ladder for Booker T. Washington, 1996

Black Artists from Around the World

  • Yinka Shonibare’s The Swing: Culture & Identity in a Global Society
  • Twins Seven-Seven’s Healing of Abiko Children

African Art

black history art
N’kisi Nkondi Power Figures from the Kongo People of Western-Central Africa
  • Art Around the World in 30 Days – Angola — This African Art Lesson features a sculpture from the Chokwe people of Northeastern Angola with discussion questions, a learning activity, and museum resources.
  • Art Around the World in 30 Days – Nigeria — The artwork in this African Art Lesson comes from the Court of Benin and includes discussion questions, a project idea, and several resources covering the history of the Kingdom of Benin.
  • Interpreting the Power of the Kongo Nkisi N’Kondi — A fantastic African Sculpture Art Lesson for middle schoolers to explore the meaning, function, and purpose of the Nkisi N’Kondi sculptures, complete with discussion questions, kinesthetic and drawing activities, a PowerPoint, and information on the history of these intriguing figures.
  • Art Around the World in 30 Days – Democratic Republic of the Congo — Focused on a contemporary artwork from artist Trigo Piula, this African Art Lesson ties in with the Nkisi N’Kondi Art Lesson above and includes discussion questions and a project idea.
  • Kuba Mask — This Wordless Wednesday post includes resources related to mask from the Kuba Kingdom, a pre-colonial kingdom in Central Africa.

Wordless Wednesdays for Black History Month Art Lessons

Wordless Wednesday posts on Art Class Curator offer artworks with little to no commentary. The artworks in these posts make for excellent bellringers when paired with an art appreciation worksheet or questions about art.

  • Ladder for Booker T. Washington
  • Discrimination is Not Protection
  • Kuba Mask

Teaching Black History Month Art Lessons

Sometimes teachers shy away from teaching about other cultures or difficult historical periods, but doing so robs our students of the opportunity to dialogue about important social issues and connect with art on a deeply personal level. The post below addresses some of these issues and why it is important to teach art from across cultures and time.

black history art

In this lesson, students learn how ethnocentric attitudes can shape how we look at art from other cultures, especially when studying non-Western art. Using three examples from the art world, high school or college students examine cultural reactions to art and how xenophobia shapes worldviews through classroom discussions and writing assignments.

Lesson: Cultural Sensitity, Xenophobia, and Ethnocentricism in Art Education

More Art Lessons

  • 5 Women Artists of Color with Learning Activities
  • 10 Intriguing Ancient Artworks from Around the World

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black history art

Filed Under: Art and Artists
Tagged With: best of art class curator

 

November 17, 2018 17 Comments

The Ultimate Collection of Principles of Design Examples and Definitions

Inside: The ultimate collection of principles of design examples and definitions, plus helpful resources for teaching the elements and principles of art.

What are the Elements and Principles of Art?

The elements of art and principles of design are the fundamental pieces that make up an artwork. Most works of art will make use of many or all of the elements and principles of art. We often judge art by how effectively the artist used these design fundamentals even before we learn about them.

elements of art examples

The elements of art are the building blocks of an artwork: color, line, shape, form, value, texture, and space. They are the tools artists use when creating an artwork. See Elements of Art Examples and Definitions for more on the elements of art.

principles of art examples principles of art definitions

The principles of design are how those building blocks are arranged: contrast, rhythm, proportion, balance, unity, emphasis, movement, and variety. They are the ways an artist can organize the elements of art to create a wide range of effects.

Each of these art fundamentals are closely related and many of them overlap. When combined, they produce a complete artistic vision.

Why are the Elements and Principles of Art Important?

Knowing the elements and principles of art boosts visual literacy. Artists and creators make more powerful works when they utilize the principles of art. When viewers are familiar with the elements of art, they become more aware of the details and can better appreciate what they see and the message behind it. Connecting with art makes us more empathetic and strengthens the fabric of society. In the age of the internet, understanding how and why advertisers make design decisions can empower students with information and make them less susceptible to manipulation.

Teaching the Elements of Art and Principles of Design

I once said that I hate the elements and principles of art, but that’s not quite accurate. The elements and principles of art are a lens through which to view and understand art, but they are not what makes art education vital. Art inspires higher level thinking, focus, a growth mindset, visual literacy, curiosity, respect, and connection. The elements and principles of design are an artist’s toolbox. Knowing the tools not only improves students’ studio art skills and gives them deeper appreciation when viewing artworks, it helps make them better, more informed citizens and prepares them for a visually complex and culturally interconnected modern world in need of creative problem solvers.

Below you’ll find an explanation of each of the principles of design, including artwork examples and links to helpful materials for teaching the individual concepts.

Please note, this post includes Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Download the Free Elements and Principles Printable Pack


This pack of printables was designed to work in a variety of ways in your classroom when teaching the elements and principles of art. You can print and hang in your classroom as posters/anchor charts or you can cut each element and principle of art in its own individual card to use as a lesson manipulative.

Principles of Design Examples and Definitions

Scroll below for each element or click the link to be taken to the appropriate principle of design:

  • Contrast
  • Rhythm
  • Proportion
  • Balance
  • Unity
  • Emphasis
  • Movement
  • Variety

Contrast

As a principle of art, contrast refers to the arrangement of opposite elements and effects. For example, light and dark colors, smooth and rough textures, large and small shapes. Contrast can be used to create variety, visual interest, and drama in an artwork.

In this example of contrast in art, Caravaggio created a scene of action and energy by contrasting both light/dark and directional lines.

Caravaggio, Crucifixion of St. Peter, 1601 Principles of Design Examples Contrast in Art
Caravaggio, Crucifixion of St. Peter, 1601

Käthe Kollwitz adds contrast using the elements of art line, value, and shape, but she also adds contrast of emotion showing the despair of the mother in dark values and lighter sweeter elements like the heart on the chair in the background.

Kathe Kollwitz, Misery, 1897 Contrast Examples in Art
Käthe Kollwitz, Misery, 1897

Contrast in Art Resources

  • The Paper Mill Store: Design Principles, Contrast
  • Jon Lovett: Contrast, Principles of Design
  • Edvard Munch Art Lesson with Project
  • Judith and Holofernes Paintings: A Compare and Contrast Art Lesson

Rhythm

Rhythm is a principle of design that suggests movement or action. Rhythm is usually achieved through repetition of lines, shapes, colors, and more. It creates a visual tempo in artworks and provides a path for the viewer’s eye to follow.

Principles of Design Examples Rhythm in Art

In this rhythm example, the artist uses pattern, repetition of line, and contrast between curved and straight lines to create rhythm in art.

Ottoman Seal Tughra of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent
Tughra (Official Signature) of Sultan Süleiman the Magnificent (r. 1520–66)

In this example of of rhythm in art, Mondrian repeats shape, color, and line to bounce the viewer’s eye around the artwork.

Piet Mondrian, Broadway Boogie-Woogie, 1942-43 rhythm principles of design examples
Piet Mondrian, Broadway Boogie-Woogie, 1942-43

In this fun rhythm in art examples video, the differences between pattern, repetition, and rhythm are described and put to music.

Rhythm in Art Resources

  • Art Soup Video: Principles of Design: Rhythm
  • Horse in Motion & The First Moving Pictures
  • Early Photography Inspired Flipbook Project

Proportion

Proportion is the size relationship between the various parts of an artwork. Artists can use the scale and proportion to create sensations such as depth, realism, disorientation, and drama.

Principles of Design Examples Proportion in Art

The human figure is scaled to appear larger than the city skyline. The proportions could indicate depth of perspective or could symbolize the relationship of laborers in building a city.

In this example of proportion in art, the artist manipulates the individual proportions of the child as well as create varying size relationship (scale) between the objects in the painting and the child to create meaning in the artwork.

Maria Izquierdo, The Indifferent Child, 1947 principles of art examples of proportion in art
María Izquierdo, The Indifferent Child, 1947

In this proportion in art example, the artist make the hands out of proportion with the rest of their bodies to enhance the meaning of the artwork. These men work with their hands, and their hands are exaggerated to show how important their hands and work are to all the people of France.

Ben Shahn, We French Workers Warn You..Defeat Means Slavery, Starvation, Death, 1942

Looking for more examples of proportion in art? Check out The Ultimate List of Proportion and Scale in Art Examples post!

Scale

Scale in art describes the size of one object in relation to another and also refers to our perception of perspective and proportion. Artworks that look realistic are scaled similarly to real world objects. Scale in art can also refer to the overall size of the work.

In this scale in art example, the artist uses scale to show the space or depth between the girl and the house in the background.

Andrew Wyeth, Christina's World, 1948 elements and principles of art scale in art examples
Andrew Wyeth, Christina’s World, 1948

In this example of scale in art, Magritte plays with scale to create an amusing composition.

Rene Magritte, Les valeurs personnelles (Personal Values), 1952 scale in art examples principles of design
René Magritte, Les valeurs personnelles (Personal Values), 1952

Hierarchical Scale

Hierarchical scale is a technique used in art, most often in sculpture and painting, in which the artist depicts objects with an unnatural scale to show their importance or lack thereof. This size manipulation draws the viewer’s eye where the artist wants attention.

Ancient Egyptian artists are well-known for their use of hierarchical scale. In this example of hierarchical scale in art, the artist shows the man as largest (most important) and the child smallest (least important). The figures are in proportion within the figure but out of proportion with the other figures in the picture.

Egyptian, Nebamun hunting in the marshes, fragment of a scene from the tomb-chapel of Nebamun, Late 18th Dynasty, around 1350 B

For more examples of scale in art, check out our proportion and scale in art blog post!

Proportion in Art Resources

  • The Ultimate Collection of Proportion in Art
  • How Artists Depict Space
  • Art Around the World in 30 Days – Day #24 – Columbia’s Fernando Botero
  • Sophia.org: Design in Art: Scale and Proportion

Balance

As a principle of art, balance refers to the distribution of weight in a composition. While actual weight is a factor in sculpture and architecture, the principle of balance most often refers to the visual heaviness of shapes and forms in an artwork. An artwork’s balance affects the equality and tension of the composition and can lend a feeling of calm or chaos to the work.

Symmetrical Balance

An artwork with symmetrical balance is well-balanced and looks even and stable. When one side of an artwork mirrors the other, it has absolute symmetry. When the symmetrical balance is not exact, it is called bilateral symmetry.

In this example of symmetrical balance in art, each animal on the left has its equal counterpart on the right. The colors are not exact, but it is still considered symmetrical balance.

American 19th Century, Cutout of Animals, , second quarter 19th century, cut paper and watercolor, Gift of Edgar William and Bernice Chrysler Garbisch
American, Cutout of Animals, second quarter 19th century

Asymmetrical Balance

An artwork with asymmetrical balance is “heavier” or “lighter” in some areas, looks unstable, and can make the viewer uncomfortable. Asymmetric balance adds a dynamic look to artworks and often draws attention to focal points in the composition.

In this example of asymmetrical balance in art, the artist balances the heavy black figure on the right with the curtain on the left. If the curtain were a different size or a different color, the balance would be thrown off.

James Abbott McNeill Whistler, Arrangement in Grey and Black No.1 (1871), Musée d'Orsay, Paris principles of design examples asymmetrical balance
James Abbott McNeill Whistler, Arrangement in Grey and Black No.1, 1871

Radial Balance

An artwork with radial balance is arranged around a central component. Forms and objects in a radially balanced composition appear to radiate out of the circular focal point of the artwork.

With radial balance, like in the example of radial balance below, one can imagine the artwork as equal pieces of a pie.

England, 17th century, Charger of Charles II in the Boscobel Oak, c. 1685 principles of design examples radial balance
England, Charger of Charles II in the Boscobel Oak, c. 1685

Looking for more examples of balance in art? Check out The Best Examples of Balance in Art post!

Balance in Art Resources

  • The Ultimate Collection of Balance in Art
  • Smashing Magazine: Design Principles: Compositional, Symmetrical, and Asymmetrical Balance
  • Lifewire: Balance: The Basic Principles of Design

Unity

Unity, also known as harmony, is a design principle that refers to the cohesiveness of an artwork—how whole, consistent, and complete it appears. Unity in art is not necessarily just a repetition of the same element over and over again, but it is the pleasing combination of elements to create a harmonious composition.

In this example of unity in art, Botero creates unity through subject matter, through rhythm, and through repetition of form, shape, and color.

Fernando Botero, The Musicians, 1991
Fernando Botero, The Musicians, 1991

In unity blog post, you will find more examples of unity in art created with shape/form, color, texture, line, style, and in architecture.

Unity in Art Resources

  • Examples of Unity in Art
  • Natomas High School Design Department
  • Virtual Art Instructor: Teach harmony and unity with a game

Emphasis

As a principle of art, emphasis refers to the area of an artwork that dominates attention or draws interest. It is often the place a viewer looks first. Artists create emphasis by contrasting the elements of art, such as color or shape.

Principles of Design Examples Emphasis in Art

In this example of emphasis in art, Goya highlights the man in white through putting him in a spotlight, having the man wear bright clothes, having many lines throughout the composition pointing to the man, and having his emotional face be one of the only faces shown.

Francisco Goya, The Third of May 1808, 1814 principles of design emphasis in art examples
Francisco Goya, The Third of May 1808, 1814

Looking for more examples of emphasis in art? Check out The Best Examples of Emphasis in Art post!

Emphasis in Art Resources

  • The Ultimate Collection of Emphasis in Art
  • Sophia.org: Design in Art: Emphasis, Variety, and Unity

Movement

Movement can be thought of in two ways – the first refers to how an artist depicts movement using the elements and principles of art. The second way refers to the visual flow of an artwork, indicated by the path a viewer’s eyes take as they look at the artwork.

Lines, edges, shapes, and colors can be utilized by the artist to point the way through an artwork as a map for our eyes to follow.

Principles of Design Examples Movement in Art

In this example of movement in art, the artist shows the movement of the wind through the shapes of the paper. The lines of the figures and the lines of the billowing clothing convey movement in art as well.

Hokusai, Ejiri in Suruga Province, 1830, principles of design examples movement in art
Hokusai, Ejiri in Suruga Province, 1830

Movement in Art Resources

  • Art, Design, and Visual Thinking: Movement
  • Art About Love: Oskar Kokoschka’s The Bride of the Wind
  • Fate of the Animals by Franz Marc

Variety

Variety refers to the elements of a composition that differ from one another. Variety creates visual interest and energy.

A lot of variety can make an artwork look busy or overwhelming. When paired with unity, variety offers the viewer points of interest.

In this example of variety in art, Kandinsky uses a variety of lines, shapes, values, and colors.

Wassily Kandinsky, Der Sturm, Volume 10, Number 7, 1919 principles of design examples variety in art
Wassily Kandinsky, Der Sturm, Volume 10, Number 7, 1919

Variety in Art Resources

  • The Virtual Instructor: Variety, Harmony, and Unity

The principles of design examples can be a powerful way to engage and interpret a work of art. To help your students engage, don’t forget to download these free art worksheets:

Free Worksheets

8 Free Art Appreciation Worksheets

includes the Elements & Principles!

Download 8 Free Art Appreciation Worksheets – including 2 Elements and Principles pages! Activities designed to work with almost any work of art. Help your students connect with art while having fun!

Download

Free Worksheets

8 Free Art Appreciation Worksheets

includes the Elements & Principles!

Download 8 Free Art Appreciation Worksheets – including 2 Elements and Principles pages! Activities designed to work with almost any work of art. Help your students connect with art while having fun!

More Principles of Design Examples

For more examples of elements and principles of art, check out more from our elements of art examples series below.

The Art Curator for Kids -Example Artworks that Show Space - The Elements and Principles of Art Series-300The Art Curator for Kids - Example Artworks that Show Line - The Elements and Principles of Art - 300The Art Curator for Kids - Example Artworks that Show Emphasis - The Elements and Principles of Art SeriesElements and Principles of Art - Artworks that Show Proportion in art and ScaleThe Art Curator for Kids - Elements and Principles of Art Series - Artworks that Show Shape - 300The Art Curator for Kids - Why I Hate the Elements and Principles But Teach Them Anyway - 300The Art Curator for Kids - How Artists Depict Space - Masterpiece Monday - John Sloan , South Beach Bathers, 1907-1908, Art Lessons for Kids - Elements of Art Lessons

Filed Under: Elements and Principles of Art
Tagged With: best of art class curator

 

November 13, 2018 Leave a Comment

The Secret to Planning a Successful Field Trip from Start to Finish

Inside: Planning a field trip? Here’s everything you need to plan a successful art field trip to a museum this year–from managing field trip chaperone behavior to scheduling the buses to preparing your students.

planning a successful art field trip art class curator

I know. I know! Planning a field trip can be a stressful nightmare. Coordinating with administrators, obtaining transportation, getting permission slips, collecting money, keeping track of students, recruiting chaperones, planning with the museum, and more. The list of to-dos for art field trips are nearly never-ending.

But . . .

You should take your classes to an art museum. There will be paperwork and headaches and hassles, but planning a field trip is all worth it. Seriously. Let’s talk about why to do it and, more importantly, how.

Importance of Field Trip

Seeing art face to face is a singular experience. There is no way to replicate seeing an artwork in person in a classroom. There’s just not. We can do a lot with hi-resolution projectors, updated textbooks, and full-size posters. Our students can and will connect with the artworks we show them at school, but they deserve to lose their breath and feel the goosebumps that only happen when interacting with art directly.

Textures and tiny details that are lost by a lens or scanner come to life under museum lights. Artworks we’re familiar with can astonish and surprise us when we see their true scale. When I saw Picasso’s Guernica in person, I became utterly transfixed by the depth and texture of the paint and the enormous scale of the composition. The terror and heartbreak were inches away. I could see it all with devastating clarity. The emotion and impact of Guernica reached me through pictures, but I literally could not walk away when I saw it in person. My perspective shifted forevermore thanks to an experience that was impossible to achieve via screen or reproduction.

art museum field trip

An art field trip can open our students eyes to the varieties and possibilities of art. Museums allow them to walk through history and dive into the expanse of human expression and experience cultures both familiar and otherwise firsthand. Art has the power to change lives. I’ve talked before about a museum trip that changed the course of my life. An art field trip helps mold our students into world citizens, igniting their curiosity and infusing their futures with wonder and delight.

Learning isn’t limited to the classroom and museums offer students a perfect chance to forge connection internally and externally, with their world and their peers. Classmates will converse with one another and their museum guide, making new meaning and gaining new understanding. These social and communication skills will serve them throughout their lives.

Are field trips worth it?

Budget cuts and a heavy focus on test-taking skills have made field trips seem like an unnecessary luxury rather than an important education tool. Across the country, out of school excursions are becoming less and less common, but the importance of field trip cannot be overstated. Students learn an amazing amount from taking their learning outside of the classroom. A recent study showed field trips help students develop into “civilized young men and women who possess more knowledge about art, have stronger critical-thinking skills, exhibit increased historical empathy, display higher levels of tolerance, and have a greater taste for consuming art and culture”.

In short—yes, that art field trip you’ve been thinking about is 100% worthwhile.

how to plan a field trip

Planning a Field Trip

It’s time to clear your throat, don your strongest teacher voice, and get ready to put your ducks in a single-file line. There’s no such thing as being too prepared when it comes to planning a field trip. That’s why we created a Field Trip Packet with everything you need to plan a successful field trip from start to finish.

Field Trip Packet

The Field Trip Packet includes:

For you:

  • Planning Guide
    • Why Field Trips are Important
    • Why Field Trips are Worth It
    • Scheduling Tips
    • Funding Tips
    • Parent Communication Tips
    • Busing Tips
    • Lunch Tips
    • Chaperone Tips
    • After the Field Trip Tips
  • Checklists
    • Planning Checklist
    • Week of Field Trip Checklist
    • Day of Field Trip Checklist
    • Student Roster
  • Parent Communication Template
  • Permission Slip Template

For students:

  • Museum & Trip Information Page
  • Sketching Page
  • Scavenger Hunt
  • Three Worksheets for Artwork Connection
    • ‘I Am’ Character Poem
    • Twitter Perspectives
    • Exploring Place: The 5 Senses
  • Trip Reflection Worksheet

Field Trip Packet

This Museum Field Trip Packet is full of documents to help you plan a successful field trip + worksheets and activities for students to complete during the museum field trip.

Buy Now

Scheduling your Field Trip

Check with your front office or school administration and find out what information you’ll need for planning a field trip. Usually, you’ll need to provide an itinerary of your trip. Be aware, some schools are sticklers and want near minute-by-minute schedules.

Please note, this post includes Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Tip: For middle and high school students, add some time to the end of the art field trip for students to walk around the museum and look on their own—still supervised by chaperones, of course.

This is also a good time to find out what dates you’ll need to avoid planning a field trip on—testing dates, other field trips, assemblies, and so on. Be sure to ask when you’re allowed to leave and what time you’ll need to be back. Often, field trip times are limited by bus schedules and pickup times.

art museum field trip

With potential dates in hand, call the art museum to book your tour. Museum staff will usually provide you with all the information you need for planning a field trip, but make sure you get these questions answered:

  • How many students are allowed per group? (Museum tours usually limit the number of individuals to 15 or so, but ask your museum so you know for sure.)
  • How many chaperones are required?
  • What time should you arrive with students?
  • Where do you park?
  • Where do you enter the museum?
  • Where can you eat lunch? Are there any museum policies regarding food that you need to be aware of?
  • Can students go into the gift shop?

Field Trip Funding

Talk with your front office about funding your art field trip. Art museum visits are usually free, but someone needs to pay for the bus. Figure out if the school or district can pay for it or do you need to collect money from the students. Divide the amount needed by the number of students going to get the amount each will owe. If you teach at a low-income school, ask the museum if they know of any grant possibilities for funding buses.

art field trip

Ask your school about the best method to collect funds. Some schools do not allow teachers to give students change, in which case you’ll need to ask students to bring the exact amount. If you are allowed to make change, keep a bunch of $1 bills on hand. Keep meticulous records of the money collected. Receipt books are an easy way to keep track and can be purchased cheaply from places like Wal-Mart, Target, or an office supply store. This will make keeping track of all the money paid and owed. Trust me, you’ll be glad to have it when a student insists they already paid.

Tip: Round up the amount needed from each student so you don’t have to collect change.

Get a big envelope to hold the funds and keep them locked in your desk or file cabinet. Ask your front office if they want it all turned it at once or at the end of each day. Print a roster of all of the students who are supposed to go on the trip to keep alongside your envelope. Make two columns alongside each name, one for money and another for permission slips.

Tip: Immediately check the appropriate column when a student turns in their money or permission slip. That way, you’ll know you didn’t forget.

planning a field trip

Field Trip Permission Slip and Parent Communication

Make sure you follow your school’s protocol for sending and collecting field trip permission slips. They should have a standard form you can use. Set a deadline for your students to turn in permission slips well before the field trip and write the deadline across the top in huge, bold letters before you copy and distribute it to students.

Tip: Make extra copies of the field trip permission slip, because students are going to lose them.

With the field trip form, send a letter to the parents about the field trip. As a parent, I sometimes get random permission slips with no information and am lost trying to figure out what it’s for. Write a little note about how excited you are to take the kids to the museum and staple it to the field trip permission slip.

Tip: If parent email addresses are available, send a copy of the letter and permission slip that way so they’re more likely to see and remember it!

museum field trip

Scheduling Buses

First, figure out who is responsible for scheduling the bus. Do you do it? Does your front office do it? Does the district do it? Even if you think you know, double check! Once the art field trip is scheduled, get the bus scheduled as soon as possible. When planning a field trip, be sure to factor in driving time, getting on and off the bus, and any possible traffic into your decisions about when the bus should arrive for pickup.

Important: Triple and quadruple check that the buses are actually scheduled. I can tell you from personal experience, it is devastating to have an entire group of fourth graders lined up for a field trip to the art museum only to discover you have NO BUS despite them being booked in advance.

When the bus arrives, be sure to get the name and cell phone number of the bus driver, as well as the bus number. You don’t want to be lost in a maze of buses with students in tow or be late getting back to school because you can’t find your driver.

Tip: Be super friendly to your bus driver. They deserve it and it will make everything easier.

Field Trip Lunch

With so many details to consider, you might forget about planning a field trip lunch, but don’t make that mistake! Consider:

  • Will you be back in time for lunch or do you need to bring lunches? Work with the front office and cafeteria staff to plan sack lunches for your students.
  • Do the students need to order their sack lunches in advance? If so, get the form to send home alongside the parent letter and permission slip.
  • For students packing lunches, it is best to put their lunches in disposable containers so everything can be thrown away and you don’t have to worry about kids losing their favorite lunch box.
  • Will the museum allow you to store lunches somewhere inside or will they need to stay on the bus?
  • Where will you eat lunch? The museum staff can tell you where to go. If they don’t have a designated courtyard or cafe, consider visiting a nearby park.
  • Will you allow students to buy food? Many museums have a cafe or are located in metro areas with nearby restaurants. For example, at the Dallas Museum of Art, there are always food trucks at a park across the street. When I took middle schoolers, I allowed a chaperone to accompany them to the park to buy lunch from the food trucks. If so, don’t forget to add that to your parent letter!
Tip: Bring a big box or bag to hold everyone’s lunch in one place.
planning a field trip

What to Bring with You on the Art Field Trip

  • First aid kit (Often the front office or nurse will have something already prepared for you to bring.)
  • Roster of all participating students
  • Cell phone numbers for your chaperones, plus the school and museum phone numbers
  • A map with directions to and from the destination for the bus driver—They probably know where to go, but it’s good to have ready just in case.
  • An art field trip museum assignment for the students to complete. Get creative! Look at the current collection on the museum website and create a scavenger hunt or bingo cards. Encourage the students to interact with the artworks by using art appreciation worksheets.
  • Pencils and paper

In addition to these things, talk with the school nurse about which students are going on the trip to find out if any medications or special precautions are necessary.

Tip: One thing not to bring—student backpacks.

field trip chaperones

Field Trip Chaperones

Once you know how many field trip chaperones you need, recruit other teachers and parents. Your school or the museum you’re visiting will likely have their own guidelines for you to follow. As a rule of thumb for museum tours, be sure you have at least 1 adult per 12-15 kids.

Print personal copies of all the information each field trip chaperone will need—times, when and where to meet, the bus number, names of children they will watch, expected behavior, and your cell number. (Don’t forget to get their cell number as well!) Put the information in a folder or on a clipboard so it’s easy to keep everything together.

Tip: Save all of your field trip letters, forms, and information sheets for planning a field trip. You can reuse them next year!

For each teacher going on the trip, make sure substitutes will be available to cover their classes. If there will be a sub in your classroom, plan your sub lessons. Pair an art appreciation worksheet with an artwork for an easy, mess-free sub lesson. You can even tie it into the art field trip by choosing one or more artworks students will see in the museum.

how to plan a field trip

Preparing the Students for the Trip

Get your students excited for the art field trip! Beyond the novelty of getting out of school for a bit, you want them psyched for the experience too. Here are some ways to do that:

  • Share pictures of the museum and the type of art they will see
  • Lead art discussions with students so they can show off their awesome art interpretation skills (They’ll be sure to impress their chaperones and museum guides!)
  • Discuss expected behavior. (More on this below)
  • Use museum resources—museums often send great lessons and supplemental information before your art field trip. These are perfect for both pre-visit and post-visit lessons and will help students remember what they see.
  • Tell students the schedule in advance what you’ll expect from them and and what they should expect regarding lunch, buses, gift shop, free time in the museum, etc. Repeat this information before you leave, on the bus, and when you arrive.

Student Behavior

As a former museum educator, I can tell you I rarely had an uncontrollable student groups. Students love field trips and the museum environment helps them stay in line. Nonetheless, discuss behavior in advance, plan and tell them consequences for misbehavior. Student behavior is a reflection on you and the school, so make sure to follow through on consequences if needed. Remember, if they respect you, they won’t want to make you look bad. Be sure students know that you’re watching and that all of the field trip chaperones will report back on their behavior.

Student Rules for Art Field Trips

  • Don’t touch the art—keep an arm’s length from artworks at all times.
  • Walk.
  • Don’t yell.
  • Treat the docent, museum staff, chaperones, and each other with respect.
  • Participate in the lesson.
  • No bags/backpacks allowed.
  • No food/candy/gum/drinks
  • No pens, pencils only. (The museum will provide pencils when needed.)
field trip planning

Field Trip Chaperone Behavior

Honestly, the worst behavior I saw when I was a museum teacher came from parents and field trip chaperones. Don’t shy away from including a do and don’t list in the information you give chaperones.

Don’t Do List for Field Trip Chaperones

  • Talk loudly in the background with other adults.
  • Treat the tour as a break. The museum teacher needs your help controlling poor behavior and inattention.
  • Answer questions asked of students. It’s fun to participate in art discussions, but don’t take the opportunity away from the students. (If you’re still itching to participate in art discussions, join me every Monday at 6 pm Central on Facebook for Masterpiece Monday! Get reminders by clicking here.)
  • Play games or scroll through social media on your phone. If you aren’t respecting the learning and experience, your students won’t either.
  • Lose anyone.

What to Do List for Field Trip Chaperones

  • Direct student attention. Pay attention to who is or isn’t engaged. If someone isn’t paying attention, give them your best teacher look, stand by them, and talk to them between stops on the tour about their behavior.
  • Model enjoyment and delight in the art. Engage with the art and the students to show them that this is a wonderful, fun experience.
  • Know the info—who is in your group, where to go and when to be there, the bus number, etc.
  • Constantly check to make sure all of the students in your group are present and accounted for. Count again and again.
successful field trip

After your Art Field Trip

When planning a field trip, don’t forget to think about the follow-up! On the return bus ride or when you get back to school:

  • Have students write three art field trip takeaways.
  • Ask students to reflect and write a paragraph about the experience.
  • Lead a class discussion about what they saw and did. (What did they like/not like? What surprised them about the experience? Do they want to go back?)
  • Have students draw pictures for or write thank you letters to send to the art museum. (The museum most likely offered that tour for free and the teacher was probably a volunteer. Make their day with a lovely note.)
  • Thank students for good behavior
  • Follow through on the discipline plan by giving consequences for poor student behavior.
  • Send a follow up letter to parents telling them about the art field trip and encouraging them to visit the art museum as a family so students can show their parents what they learned. Make sure to include information and upcoming events at the museum, as well as any free admission the museum offers.

When all is said and done, take time to reflect on the art field trip yourself. Take stock of what went well and what didn’t work. Take note what your students enjoyed and what you’d like to do differently next time. Breathe. Enjoy a job well done. Then, start planning your next artful excursion!

 

Filed Under: Art, Art Ed Blogger's Network, Art Teacher Tips
Tagged With: best of art class curator

 

October 26, 2018 13 Comments

The Ultimate Collection of Elements of Art Examples and Definitions

Inside: The ultimate collection of elements of art examples and elements of art definitions, plus helpful resources for teaching the elements of art.

What are the Elements and Principles of Art?

The elements of art and principles of design are the fundamental pieces that make up an artwork. Most works of art will make use of many or all of the elements and principles of art. We often judge art by how effectively the artist used these design fundamentals even before we learn about them.

The elements of art are the building blocks of an artwork: color, line, shape, form, value, texture, and space. They are the tools artists use when creating an artwork.

The principles of design are how those building blocks are arranged: contrast, rhythm, proportion, balance, unity, emphasis, movement, and variety. They are the ways an artist can organize the elements of art to create a wide range of effects.

Each of these art fundamentals are closely related and many of them overlap. When combined, they produce a complete artistic vision.

Why are the Elements and Principles of Art Important?

elements of art examples

Knowing the elements and principles of art boosts visual literacy. Artists and creators make more powerful works when they utilize the principles of art. When viewers are familiar with the elements of art, they become more aware of the details and can better appreciate what they see and the message behind it.

Connecting with art makes us more empathetic and strengthens the fabric of society. In the age of the internet, understanding how and why advertisers make design decisions can empower students with information and make them less susceptible to manipulation.

Teaching the Elements and Principles of Art

The Art Curator for Kids - Why I Hate the Elements and Principles But Teach Them Anyway

I once said that I hate the elements and principles of art, but that’s not quite accurate. The elements and principles of art are a lens through which to view and understand art, but they are not what makes art education vital. Art inspires higher level thinking, focus, a growth mindset, visual literacy, curiosity, respect, and connection. The elements and principles of design are an artist’s toolbox. Knowing the tools not only improves students’ studio art skills and gives them deeper appreciation when viewing artworks, it helps make them better, more informed citizens and prepares them for a visually complex and culturally interconnected modern world in need of creative problem solvers.

Below you’ll find an explanation of each of the elements and principles of art, including artwork examples and links to helpful materials for teaching the individual concepts. 

Please note, this post includes Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Download the Free Elements and Principles Printable Pack

Free Resource!

* Elements & Principles Printable Pack *

The Elements & Principles of Art are the foundation of every artwork, but teaching them can be a bore. Wake your students up and engage them with full color artworks, easy to understand definitions, and thought-provoking higher level thinking questions. This versatile resource can be hung in the classroom or used as an art manipulative.

Download

Free Resource!

* Elements & Principles Printable Pack *

The Elements & Principles of Art are the foundation of every artwork, but teaching them can be a bore. Wake your students up and engage them with full color artworks, easy to understand definitions, and thought-provoking higher level thinking questions. This versatile resource can be hung in the classroom or used as an art manipulative.


This pack of printables was designed to work in a variety of ways in your classroom when teaching the elements and principles of art. You can print and hang in your classroom as posters/anchor charts or you can cut each element and principle of art in its own individual card to use as a lesson manipulative.

Elements of Art Examples and Definitions

Scroll below for each element or click the link to be taken to the appropriate section:

  • Color
  • Line 
  • Shape
  • Form
  • Value
  • Texture
  • Space

Color

color in art definition
André Derain, Charing Cross Bridge, 1906

Color is the visual property of the pigment of an object that is detected by the eye and produced as a result of the way the object reflects or emits light. The human eye is capable of seeing millions of colors, making it one of the most diverse and powerful elements of art.

Each color has three properties—hue, value, and intensity. Hue is the name of a color. Value is a color’s lightness or darkness, which is altered when black or white is added. Intensity refers to the intensity of a color, often measured by boldness or dullness.

In this example of color in art, Paul Klee shows contrast between high intensity and low intensity colors by using more or less water with his paint.

color in artworks
Paul Klee, Hammamet with Its Mosque, 1984

Primary Colors

All colors come from the three primary colors—red, blue, and yellow. You cannot mix any colors to create a primary color. They are the base hues for all other colors.

In this example of primary colors in art, Jacob Lawrence uses only neutral colors with the primary colors of red, blue, and yellow.

primary colors in art
Jacob Lawrence, Workshop (Builders #1), 1972

Looking for more examples of primary colors in art? Check out our post of color in art examples and definitions post!

Complementary Colors

To find a pair of complementary colors, simply draw a line from one of the color wheel to the other. Complementary colors are called that because, when placed side by side, they are pleasing to the eye. They create an appealing contrast in artworks. Some of the basic complementary color pairings are red and green, purple and yellow, and orange and blue.

In this example of complementary colors in art, Hiroshige uses red and green to create contrast.

complementary colors in art definition

Ando Hiroshige, Plum Estate, Kameido From “One Hundred Famous Views of Edo”, 1857

For more examples of complementary colors in art, check out the full color in art examples post!

Analogous Colors

To find a pair of analogous colors, simply choose two colors that are touching on the color wheel. Analogous colors create harmony and unity in art because they are made of the same hues. Some of the basic analogous color pairings are blue and green, red and orange, and yellow and green.

In this example of analogous colors in art, Vincent van Gogh uses colors next to one another on the color wheel–blue, green, and yellow.

example of analogous colors in art definition

Vincent van Gogh, The Olive Trees, 1889

Looking for more examples of analogous colors in art? Check out the Color in Art: Examples & Definitions post!

Warm and Cool Colors

Warm colors are reds, oranges, and yellows. They pop out towards viewer, and create energy and excitement in an artwork. On the other hand, the cool colors of blues, greens, and violets recede from the viewer’s eye and create a calming effect.

In this example of warm and cool colors in art, Dorothea Tanning contrasts warm with cool colors to show the clash of rest and restlessness in insomnia.

warm and cool colors in art definition
Dorothea Tanning, Insomnias, 1957

For more examples of warm and cool colors in art, check out the full color post!

Color in Art Resources

  • The Ultimate Collection of Color in Art: Examples & Definitions
  • Color in Art Lesson
  • I Spy Colors in Art (Book)
  • Vincent’s Colors (Book)
  • My Many Colored Days (Book)
  • The Virtual Instructor: Color Theory
  • Arty Factory: Color

Art Class Curator has a full color wheel lesson available in the Curated Connections Library including all of following color wheel topics: primary, secondary, intermediary/tertiary colors, analogous colors, complementary colors, monochromatic colors (tints/shades), cool/warm colors, and mood.

Line

Line is an element of art defined as the path of a point moving through space. There are many types of line in art. Lines may be continuous or broken, and can be any width or texture. The great variety of line types make them an especially useful tool in artworks.

Direction of Line

The direction of a line can dramatically alter an artwork. Diagonal lines create movement an energy. Horizontal and vertical lines add stability and strength to an artwork.

In this example of directional lines in art, Artemisia Gentileschi uses both diagonal lines to show the energy and excitement of the scene and vertical lines (in Judith’s attendant) to show strength.

diagonal lines in art
Artesmisia Gentileschi, Judith Slaying Holofernes, 1614–20

Looking for more examples of directional lines in art? Check out this post about line!

Contour Lines

Contour lines form the outside edge of a three-dimensional shape and clearly defines the area it occupies.

Look at the face of Leonardo da Vinci below; the contour lines around his facial features give his face form.

contour lines in art definition
Leonardo da Vinci, Self-Portrait, c. 1512

Looking for more examples of contour lines in art? Check out the Artworks That Show Line post!

Gesture Lines

Gesture lines are lines that show movement, particularly of characters in an artwork.

In this example of gesture lines in art, Marino Marini uses big swooshing gesture lines that capture the action and energy of the subject.

gesture lines in art
Marino Marini, Miracle (Miracolo), 1952

Looking for more examples of gesture lines in art? Check out this post of types of line in art!

Implied Lines

Implied lines are not made by a physical mark in an artwork, but rather by visual suggestion. Our eyes often follow them automatically, so they draw attention to specific parts of an artwork.

In this example of implied lines in art, Grant Wood uses implied lines to emphasize the hatchet in the center. Follow the implied lines from the ladder to the father’s hand to George Washington’s hand to the hatchet. The narrator’s hand leads to an implied line as well.

implied lines in art
Grant Wood, Parson Weems’ Fable, 1939

Looking for more examples of implied lines in art? Check out our elements of art line post!

Expressive Lines

Lines that show feeling and emotion are called expressive lines.

In this example of expressive lines in art, Edvard Munch uses wavy lines in contrast with a strong straight diagonal line to convey anxiety.

expressive lines in art
Edvard Munch, The Scream, 1893

Looking for more examples of expressive lines in art? Check out the Artworks That Show Line post!

Line in Art Resources

The Art Curator for Kids - Example Artworks that Show Line - The Elements and Principles of Art
  • The Ultimate Collection of Line in Art
  • The Art of an Idea: Math and Art Integration with Sol Lewitt’s Instruction
  • Arty Factory: Line

Art Class Curator has a full line lesson available in the Curated Connections Library including all of following line topics: contour lines, gesture lines, implied lines, expressive lines, lines in architecture, and characteristics of line.

Shape

A shape is an enclosed area of space created through lines or other elements of the composition.

Geometric Shapes

Geometric shapes are precise areas that can be made using a ruler or compass. These shapes can be simple or complex and generally give an artwork a sense of order.

In this example of geometric shapes in art, Picasso uses circles, triangles, crescents, and rectangles.

geometric shapes in art
Pablo Picasso, Three Musicians, 1921

Looking for more examples of geometric shapes in art? Check out the Artworks That Use Shape post!

Organic/Free-Form Shapes

Organic shapes are complex and imprecise. They give works of art a natural feeling.

In this artwork, Grace Hartigan uses a variety of examples of organic and free-form shapes.

organic free-form shapes in art definition
Grace Hartigan, The Year of the Cicada, 1970

Looking for more examples of organic shapes in art in art? Check out this list of art using shape!

Shape in Art Resources

  • The Ultimate Collection of Shape in Art
  • Paper Sculpture Project Inspired by Geometric MADI Art
  • When a Line Bends . . . A Shape Begins (Book)
  • I Spy Shapes in Art (Book)
  • Arty Factory: Shape

Form

Form is an element of art closely related to shape. Like shape, form can be geometric or organic. However, unlike shape, form is always three-dimensional. A form is measurable by length, width, and height, and encloses volume. Forms can be well-defined, such as a cube, or they can be free-form, such as an animal. They can be created by combining two or more shapes and are often defined by the presence of shadow and how light plays against it in an artwork.

In this examples of form in art, Dalí uses geometric forms (spheres) to create his image.

geometric forms in art definition

Salvador Dali, Galatea of the Spheres, 1952

In this example of form in art, Niki de Saint Phalle uses organic form.

organic form in art definition
Niki de Saint Phalle, Le Paradis Fantastique, 1967-1971, Photo Credit: Frankie Fouganthin

Form in Art Resources

  • The Virtual Instructor: Form
  • Set Free the Angels: How Carved Sculptures Are Made
  • National Gallery of Art: Form (3rd-4th Grade Lesson)

Value

Value in art refers to the lightness and darkness of colors and is often described in varying levels of contrast. White is the lightest value while black is the darkest. To create a tint of a color, the artist adds white. To create a shade, the artist adds black.

In this example of value in art, Rufino Tamayo adds white to a color to create a tint in the clothes of the women, one of the baskets, and in the checkerboard on the wall.

value in art definition

Rufino Tamayo, Women of Tehuantepec, 1939

In this example of value in art, Dürer creates a wide range of values using the shading techniques of hatching, cross-hatching, and stippling.

value in art definition

Albrecht Durer, Melancholy I, 1514

Value in Art Resources

  • Drawing Dimension – Shading Techniques (Book)
  • The Virtual Instructor: Value
  • NY Times: Four Ways to Think about Value
 

Texture

Texture refers to the tactile qualities of a surface. This element of art deals with the way objects feel or the way it looks like they would feel.

Tactile or Actual Texture

Tactile texture is the actual feeling of a surface that can be touched. Think of the actual texture of a sculpture or a painting created with the impasto technique.

In this example of tactile or actual texture in sculpture, Meret Oppenheim uses actual fur to cover the saucer, cup, and spoon.

tactile actual texture in art definition
Meret Oppenheim, Object, 1936

Impasto is the technique of applying paint very thickly to the surface. In this closeup of Water Lily Pond, you can see Monet’s thick application of paint to create actual/tactile texture.

actual tactile texture in art definition
Claude Monet, Water Lily Pond, 1900 (detail)

Looking for more elements of art examples of tactile texture in art? Check out the Texture in Art Examples post!

Visual Texture

Visual texture is the illusion of texture in an artwork. Think of a photograph of a forest. The texture of the trees and leaves is seen, but the photograph remains smooth.

Albrecht Dürer mimics creates the visual texture of thick fur in his painting of Hieronymus Holzschuher, but the actual texture is that of oil paint.

visual texture in art definition
Albrecht Dürer, Portrait of Hieronymus Holzschuher, 1526

For more examples of visual texture in art, check out our post of texture in art examples!

Texture in Art Resources

  • The Ultimate Collection of Texture in Art Examples
  • Sophia: Texture
  • Arty Factory: Texture
  • Rodin’s The Burghers of Calais
 

Space

Space is the element of art that is concerned with how an artwork depicts depth. It is how artists make a two-dimensional surface look three-dimensional. Space can give the illusion of objects in an artwork being close, far away, or overlapping one another.

In this example of space in art, John Sloan uses overlapping, foreshortening, relative size, perspective, and more. For more information about this painting and how artists depict space, check out this blog post about the artwork.

space in art examples
John Sloan, South Beach Bathers, 1907-1908

Linear Perspective

Linear perspective is the mathematical system by which an artist uses lines to create the illusion of deep, three-dimensional space on a two-dimensional surface.

Piero della Francesca was one of the forerunners of linear perspective. In Ideal City, he used one-point linear perspective to show the depth of the space.

linear perspective in art definition
Piero della Francesca, Ideal City, c. 1470

Looking for more examples of linear perspective in art? Check out the Artworks That Show Space post!

Atmospheric Perspective

Atmospheric perspective, sometimes called aerial perspective, refers to how objects that are far away often appear fuzzier or less detailed than objects that are close due to the contrast between light and dark being increasingly reduced by the effects of atmosphere. Artists use value and shading to mimic atmospheric perspective and give their artworks a realistic appearance.

In this example of atmospheric perspective in art, the trees and mountains in the background are fuzzier and less detailed than the items in the foreground.

Atmospheric Perspective in art definition
Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Hunters in the Snow (Winter), 1565

Looking for more examples of atmospheric perspective in art? Check out this list of space in art examples!

Positive and Negative Space

In addition to space being a way to show depth, artists also use positive and negative space as elements of art. Positive space is the areas of the artwork filled with the content, and negative space is the space in between.

In Rodin’s The Cathedral, the empty negative space between the hands creates as much emotion and power as the positive space of the hands.

elements of art examples
Auguste Rodin, The Cathedral, 1908

For more examples of positive and negative space in art, check out our elements of art space post.

Space in Art Resources

The Art Curator for Kids -Example Artworks that Show Space - The Elements and Principles of Art Series
  • The Ultimate Collection of Space in Art Examples
  • How Artists Depict Space
  • Perspective Made Easy (Book)
  • Sophia: Space
  • NY Times: 5 Ways to Think About Space

Download the Free Elements and Principles Printable Pack


This pack of printables was designed to work in a variety of ways in your classroom when teaching the elements and principles of art. You can print and hang in your classroom as posters/anchor charts or you can cut each element and principle of art in its own individual card to use as a lesson manipulative.

More Elements of Art Examples

For more examples of elements and principles of art, check out more from our elements of art examples series below.


The Art Curator for Kids -Example Artworks that Show Space - The Elements and Principles of Art Series-300The Art Curator for Kids - Example Artworks that Show Line - The Elements and Principles of Art - 300The Art Curator for Kids - Example Artworks that Show Emphasis - The Elements and Principles of Art SeriesElements and Principles of Art - Artworks that Show Proportion in art and ScaleThe Art Curator for Kids - Elements and Principles of Art Series - Artworks that Show Shape - 300The Art Curator for Kids - Why I Hate the Elements and Principles But Teach Them Anyway - 300The Art Curator for Kids - How Artists Depict Space - Masterpiece Monday - John Sloan , South Beach Bathers, 1907-1908, Art Lessons for Kids - Elements of Art Lessons

Filed Under: Elements and Principles of Art
Tagged With: best of art class curator

 

October 24, 2018 21 Comments

Judith and Holofernes Paintings: A Compare and Contrast Art Lesson

Inside: Art lesson ideas and activities for comparing two Baroque Judith and Holofernes paintings. Which was made by a man and which was painted by a woman?

Judith and Holofernes

Let’s talk about decapitation for a minute.
Did I draw you in with that hook? Whether you rose your eyebrows or nodded with excitement, you’re curious about what I’m going to say next, and your students will be too.

Throughout art history, there are topics and stories that we see repeated time and again by different artists, because they capture the imagination and ignite our emotions. One example of this is Judith and Holofernes paintings based on the story of Judith slaying Holofernes from the Septuagint and the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Christian Old Testament of the Bible. This story is represented in more than 114 paintings and sculptures!

Judith and Holofernes paintings
*Read more to see artist’s name, Judith Slaying Holofernes, 1614–20

Please note, this post includes Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Judith and Holofernes Paintings

To sum up the story, Holofernes, an Assyrian general and our dastardly villain, was tasked by the king to destroy Judith’s hometown, the city of Bethulia. Judith, a beautiful widow, charms and befriends Holofernes and is allowed into Holofernes’ tent because of his desire for her. After he gets drunk and passes out, she chops of his head and carries it away in a basket back to Bethulia to prove to her neighbors that their troubles are over. Bam!

Caravaggio, Judith Beheading Holofernes, 1598-99 Judith and Holofernes paintings
*Read more to see artist’s name, Judith Beheading Holofernes, 1598-99

These two representations of the story are remarkably similar, but the differences stand out. One of my all-time favorite art lessons is to have students compare and contrast these two Judith and Holofernes paintings. It’s a great lesson in looking closely. The longer you can keep a student looking and thinking, the more they will get out of it. Have your students notice the similarities and differences between the colors, lighting, postures, and expressions of the people, actions, lines, and emotions. There’s plenty to keep students exploring and engaged.

(Facebook video not working? Watch on YouTube.)

Discussing Gender in Art

I always follow up the compare and contrast activity with a thought-provoking question: “Which of these paintings was painted by a woman, and which was painted by a man?

Think about it. What do you think the correct answer is? How can you tell one was painted by a woman and one a man?

Notice how the women are painted. In the first one, the woman is strong and determined. She’s got her knee on the bed, really going for it. In the second, the woman is delicate and looks disgusted. She’s leaning away from the action, keeping her distance. Her body language is timid and worried.

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Free Poster

What Do Kids Learn from Looking at Art Poster

Our students learn so much from looking at art. Use this poster in your classroom to remind them of all the skills they’re growing!

Classroom Art Discussion

I’ve led this discussion with countless groups of students–high-schoolers, college students, and adults. Answers and reasons always vary, and there is always an interesting discussion. Even when they get the answer “wrong,” it is still is an interesting way to explore gender and stereotypes. It’s a great way to encourage deep learning about the lives of artists.

The Passion of Artmesia by Susan Vreeland

Are you ready for the correct answer? Did you think about it first?

The first is the woman artist — Artemisia Gentileschi). The second is the man — Caravaggio. Did you get it right?

Gentileschi, a rare woman painter from the past, led a tumultuous life. She painted strong and powerful women, as well as women being oppressed or exposed. Although we tend to connect a woman’s life to her painting more than we do with male painters (see this post about the lives of artists), it’s hard to resist seeing the connection here. As a teenager, she was raped by a friend of her father. At the time, the woman was usually seen at the one to blame. There was a trial and she almost married the man who raped her. You can read about her life in the awesome biographical novel, The Passion of Artemisia by Susan Vreeland. I highly recommend this book. I read it years ago and loved it.

See more of Artemisia Gentileschi’s artwork here.

Art Learning Activities for Judith Slaying Holofernes

  • Compare and contrast the two works. After noticing all the similarities and differences, ask your students which painting was painted by a man and which a woman. Ask them to explain their answer. Use the compare and contrast art activity from the bundle of free art appreciation worksheets to get students thinking. (See photo below.)
  • Study Baroque art to better understand the characteristics of these two works. Use my Baroque lesson that includes this activity along with other compare/contrast activities to teach the main characteristics of Baroque. Buy the lesson here or join the Curated Connections Library to get the lesson materials.
  • Read my post about Exploring Narrative in Art for more activities to support and connect with stories in art.
  • Check out other representations of the story (below) and talk about which paintings depict the story more effectively and what choices artists makes to tell stories.
  • Watch the Khan Academy Smarthistory video about Gentileschi’s version of this story.
  • The following worksheets from my $12 Printable Art Appreciation Worksheets Bundle work well with these artworks: 4 Steps of Art Criticism, Compare and Contrast, Twitter Perspectives, Write a Letter, Formal Analysis–Elements of Art, Charlotte Mason Picture Study, Write a Haiku, and the “I am” Character Poem. Many of these worksheets are also available in my free worksheets bundle for e-mail subscribers.

This post was originally published on October 27, 2014.

Mentioned on the Art Class Curator Podcast…

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Filed Under: Art and Artists
Tagged With: artemisia gentileschi, best of art class curator, caravaggio

 

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