Difficulty Level
Mess Potential
Student Satisfaction
Printability
To explore a new medium and introduce drawing from observation.
Project Description
Start by discussing how artists draw from their imaginations, but can also draw something they are looking at. Introduce the vocabulary term “still life,” and share examples from a variety of artists.
Instructions
- Use a pencil to draw the basic shape of the basket. If you are using a basket for observation, refer to its shape as you draw and point out details that the artist could add. Be sure to include a horizontal line to indicate the table.
- Observe the apples and draw their shapes. Add visible details, such as stems or leaves.
- Use a black Sharpie to trace the pencil drawing, adding contrast.
- Using the moist watercolors, students can add realistic or imaginative color to their still life. For an added challenge, demonstrate how to add a basic shadow to the apples to add dimension. Remind students to let adjacent areas dry before painting to prevent color bleed. Finally, encourage them to paint their entire composition!
From the Blog
Fashion Forward Art with Miranda Meeks
Art Teachers Who Wear Their Students’ Creations: Part 1 Miranda Meeks is an art educator at Caldwell County Middle School...
NAEA Boston—Another Outstanding Conference!
NAEA 2019 was another outstanding conference. With a record 5,000+ in attendance, we were thrilled to meet so many incredible...
Sycamore Serves Colors the Community
Here at Art to Remember, we love witnessing how one great idea can transform an entire community through the power...