In the Classroom-High School Abstract Art Project

Always a Success!

This fun, easy and educational project begins with students making a collage from magazine pictures.
Next, they create a painting based on their observations of the collage. Students learn so much about composition, problem solving and technique in this project. It's always a good time and every painting is a success because every student advances their skills while having a great time in the art room!

To learn specific details about this project go to this informative article in ARTS and ACTIVITIES magazine for art educators. April 2017 issue.

http://artsandactivities.com/abstract-painting-be-your-own-captain-of-creativity/

 

Abstract Painting COLLAGE Method

Abstract Painting

using a magazine collage as your inspiration

Student work (high school introductory art)

Wow...We just finished our abstract paintings using the method demonstrated in a video featuring insrtuctor Jim Cogswell from the University of Michigan School of Art and Design (Great School!). Students created a collage from magazine cutouts, then used the collage as a guide for their painting. The college level paintings are large, thoughtful works of art that are an inspiration to my younger students. After watching the video we all want to take Jim's class!

My high school students LOVED this method. Very often, they simply don't know where to begin with abstract design. Show your students this fascinating video and watch the masterpieces unfold before your very eyes!http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=vG9MSAfOK7g

Because my high school students are at an introductory level, I have slightly amended the process  described in the video to provide a little more direction for students who lack painting experience. I have found my students garner more success when they pre-plan a color scheme. I also introduce the concept of symbolism by requiring students to describe a theme or mood they wish to invoke. The theme should be a short 1- 5 word description or title such as 'summer', 'explosion', or 'hot meets cold'.

 

High school student work:

To see examples and brief instructions for some of my FAVORITE ART PROJECTS IN THE CLASSROOM (High School) click here