Our Year, So Far... (part 1)

Oh, geeze! It has been WAY too long since I have updated this blog. I will try make up for my absence with this behemoth of a post.

I am lucky enough that I get to teach my students all year long (a lot of JH art classes last only a semester). I wouldn't want it any other way because we get to explore so many different mediums, techniques, and concepts!

Here are just some of the highlights of our year so far!

Our first major project in 7th grade was all about line, pattern and Op(tical) art! 

Early on, 7th graders studied the Japanese art of Notan designs. We also learned that a good balance of positive and negative space helps to create a strong composition.

Meanwhile, 8th graders were reviewing grid method and the observational drawing techniques they learned last year. They then tried out a whole bunch of new value and shading techniques that they could use throughout the year. 

After a short unit on drawing from observation, 7th graders were ready to dive in the world of color theory. They started by learning all about the color wheel, the different schemes, and practiced how to mix all those colors! We then learned about monochromatic color schemes and Picasso's famous monochrome periods. Here are all their tints, shades, and tones!

I had so many awesome options to choose from for this project! There are so many more!

8th graders were also concerned with color. Specifically, with the natural color spectrum and how the brain perceives warm and cool colors. Cool colors recede, while warm colors come forward. We used this knowledge to create depth in bright, bold paintings. 

7th grade made paintings in the style of Oaxacan amate bark paintings; to honor Hispanic Heritage Month and Mexican folk art.

That wraps up part 1 of this post! Stay tuned for part 2! I promise to get around to it before the Summer!