Art Activity: Beauty in the details

 

Yellena James, Biome, Pen and Ink on Paper, 14”x11” 2010

Title:  Beauty in the Details

Big Idea:  Nature

Key Concepts: There are various patterns and details in nature.

              Natural elements interact with each other.

              Natural objects can be used to create a subject or a space.

              Using line to create detailed patterns and texture.

Essential Questions:

              How do natural objects interact with each other?

              How do artists use line to express details and texture?

              What patterns and details exist in nature?

Connection to Contemporary Artists:  Yellena James is a contemporary artist living and working in Portland, Oregon. 

                           

Expressive/Creative (Art Production)

                             Create a drawing using similar materials and inspiration (such as local flora) as James.

                             Use a multimedia approach to create a detailed pattern drawing from nature.

 

Formal:

 Create a composition that juxtaposes at least two different plants.

   Keep a consistent colour palette.

   Explore different types of line work.

   Create an organic composition using pattern and texture.

Vocabulary:

              Implied Line-Implied lines are lines that are not necessary drawn in an image, but are lines created by values, colours, textures or shapes that guide the eye though the piece of artwork.   

              Juxtaposition-the act or an instance of placing two or more things side by side

              Focal Point-the point at which all elements or aspects converge; center of activityor attention

              Complementary Colours-Colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel are considered to be complementary colours (example: red and green)

              Analogous Colours-Colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel. They usually match well and create serene and comfortable designs

Materials:

              Sketch paper

              Pencils (graphite and coloured)

              Sets of coloured markers, sharpies preferred

              8”x10” sheets of paper

              Visuals for sketching activity

              Step by Step:

              Choose one or two of the objects placed at the center of your table.  Take the next 20 minutes to carefully observe the objects you have selected and draw them on your paper.  What details and textures can you see?  How can you express those details and textures?  If you have picked more than one item, try placing them close together on your page so they interact with one another.