This group of first graders has been by far one of the most challenging groups I've ever encountered. They are a large and lively group. With only two more art classes to go they really rose to the occasion with this project. I'd like to think they wanted to redeem themselves with these watercolor flowers inspired by Georgia O'Keefe!
The students were given a square 12" x 12" sheet of white drawing paper, a box of watercolor paints, a paint brush and water cup. No pencils allowed for this lesson. They were instructed to use an analogous color scheme of either warm or cool colors for their "huge" flower. The students began in the center by painting a circle. Some simple petal shapes were demonstrated then the students were instructed to begin painting around the center with a contour line only of their petal. They went around around and around until they hit the edges of their paper. Once this step was complete they began making washes of their chosen color scheme to loosely fill in the petal shapes with color. Backgrounds of green were used to add the final touch. There were a few students who stepped out of the box and did not use neighboring colors and their flowers were every bit as beautiful. I think Georgia O'Keefe would be proud! I know I am!
Beautiful works of art. Those first graders have done well.
ReplyDeleteThank you Kathy I'm so glad you enjoyed their work.
DeleteReally nice! My 4th and 5th graders have trouble remembering what analogous colors are, so I'm impressed that you even approached this with first graders!
ReplyDeleteThanks Phyl. I was noticing that you are doing Jackson Pollock with your kids, brave women!!!
DeleteThis is fabulous work! Makes me wish I had one this age-I would frame it properly and put it up!
ReplyDeleteThat's a great comment. Thanks Jenny! The parents do have the possibility of obtaining this art work on our Artsonia page which is really cool.
DeleteThese are really lovely.. I agree with Jenny (above), I'll bet there are a few proudly framed at your student's homes!
ReplyDeleteThis is soooo cool. My partner and I own a company called Kidzaw where we try to do similar type projects. It really has taken off. We would love to somehow involve you in the project. You would be a great testing ground and probably have a bunch of cool ideas. Just email me if you'd like to discuss some type of partnership.
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Jane@kidzaw.com