I decided yesterday that I really need to get back into making art. I used to do it all of the time, because I was in college and an art minor. Now that I am an art teacher, I find that I make no time for this creative process. I miss it. I need it.
So, with that being said, I have decided to make it my mission to create 14 art pieces this year. In order to inspire myself, I thought I would share with you, a lesson, that I do with my drawing class.
It is called: Texture/ Pattern Name
The reason for this is because you are using pattern to create implied texture.
This really is a simple project for adults to do, but sometimes it really gets some of my students. No matter how hard it gets for them, they are always pleased with the results.
SUPPLIES:
1 sheet blank paper- Any size that you choose. I'll be showing a standard size sheet at 8-1/2 x 11 and a larger piece 14x18 which I have my students use.
1 pencil
1 black marker (a Sharpie is fine, but any black marker will do)
Colored pencils in the colors of your choice
Procedure:
Step 1: Put a one inch border on your paper
Step 2: Draw your name or nick name in the box, using block letters. You must fill the entire space and the letters must touch the sides. Use pencil, so that you may correct any mistakes.
Step 3: Go over your pencil marks with black marker.
Step 4: Add crossing lines. Do not start or finish any lines in the corners.
Here are your line options:
A: 3 zigzag and 1 curved
B: 3 curved and 1 straight
That gives you a total of 4 crossing lines. It is best if you carry them from left to right, or from top to bottom. Overlapping is really great, here! You may place them wherever you want them in your piece.
Step 5: Fill in each and every space with a different pattern or design. You can use letters, numbers, shapes, symbols, lines, dots, etc. The world in your oyster! One thing that I tell my students, is to not place the same pattern or design right next to a space with the same pattern. Go for variety and mix it up. If you have polka dots is one space, place polka dots on the other side of the paper, or at least a few spaces away.
Your name will be hidden. That is the fun about this project. The students love to try and find their classmates name.
Here is an example of one that I am currently working on. The name is TIFF. You can see that the background, I am using warm colors (red, orange, yellow, etc.), and in the letters, I am using cool colors (blue, green, purple, etc.). This will provide a nice contrast and will allow the viewer to easily find the name hidden inside. You may do this if you so choose.
Step 6: Color it in using the colors of your choosing.
Here are two examples of student work:
Step 7: Display it for all to see!
