During my study, I explored different types of acrylic paint, along with mediums. Since my topic is patterns, I aimed to include repetition of marks and color in my exploration. I painted a small canvas with three fish overlapping vertically. In class, I experimented with Posca Paint markers, Liquitex Professional colors, Metallic Ohuhu paint, Crafters paint, Liquitex thinner, and a gloss. After testing out a lot of the paint brands, I think I still prefer Blick paints. I like that they have bold colors and are also categorized into beginner, moderate, and professional grades. For this experimental stage, I wanted to focus on making solid brush strokes to look at the smoothness of the paint and pigment. I also wanted to use the metallic shades to see what showed up best when layering. In Exploring Materials Chapter 3, there is a section about how to use mark-making and texture to further communicate ideas. In the text, it talks about how this thinking and practice about artwork ‘in the making' draws on insights developed through direct experience with the materials.” (69) This section talks about different supports in the art room and how to set your students up for success.
30-minute exploration with matierals
Reflection
I really enjoyed doing this exploration.
Final 30-minute study with acrylic paint, which is my favorite medium!
Ideas for Lessons PK-12
Elementary
For this lesson, I would use acrylic and tempera paint mixed to make different shades of red, orange, yellow, green, and brown on plates. I would have a large roll of paper, draw some fall tree outlines, read a story about fall and leaves changing colors, and have students do a timeline of trees from summer into fall!
Middle School
For this lesson, the students would sketch landscapes. Then I would show students videos of Bob Ross painting landscapes. Then I would have students find their own reference photos and start to paint their own landscape in their style.
High School
For this lesson, I would create color wheels with students and explain how to make their own color palette. Afterward, the students would be given a prompt about identity, and they would be asked to make a painting to reflect their experiences.
