Lesson #2: From Realism to Abstraction
9x12 drawing paper, paper viewfinders (made by cutting out a small rectangle in the middle of a larger piece of paper), ebony pencils, erasers.
The still-life set-up should include objects that represent 21st century life.
Reproductions of: Juan Gris' Breakfast, 1914; PIcasso's Still-Life with Violin and Fruit, 1912; William Harnett's My Gems, 1888
Teacher-made sketch on large paper of a section of a still-life set-up.
Students will receive a 9x12 piece of drawing paper to fold in half. They will use their viewfinders to select one section to draw on one half of their paper. On the other half, they will abstract the realistic sketch using some of the techniques listed on the board.
Select a few sketches to show the class.
- What has the student done to abstract the still-life?
- What has the student done to ensure that the objects are still recognizable?
We see abstractions all around us. For example, think about the symbols for public restrooms. Make a list of three abstract images that you see in your daily life and illustrate them.
STRANDS ADDRESSED:
Art Making: sketching and abstracting a still-life set-up
Literacy: looking at and discussing art, developing visual arts vocabulary, interpreting and analyzing art
Community and Cultural Resources: identifying familiar abstract images in the community