In this one time painting class, students will paint a their own beautiful Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. Students will learn basic acrylic painting techniques. I will lead a discussion about how to paint landscapes, and how best to achieve this look using acrylic paint and assorted brushes. 

At the beginning of the class, I will go over the art materials with the students. We will discuss color mixing and the use of a palette to mix paints.  I will use a document camera, so that students can follow along directly with me.  First, students will sketch their compositions. Students will be told that they can be creative and change the landscape composition if they choose to. After sketching, we will begin painting the bright night sky.  Students will learn about the different colors that can be seen in the Northern Lights. We will paint with green, pink, yellow, blue, and black. I will discuss blending of paints.

Next, students will learn how to paint an icy reflection of the northern lights in the sky. Students will also add light and shadows on distant mountains and to snowy ground. Students will learn about the idea of silhouette and will paint all black pine trees. Finally, stars will be added to the sky for a magical, nighttime look. 

My teaching style is relaxed. Students can go at their own pace. I will encourage students to show me their artwork during the creative process so that I can give feedback that is both educational and enthusiastic.  Learners will get to interact with me and with each other, while creating their own artwork and watching my demonstration. At the end of class, students can show their artwork to each other and to me. If students don't feel comfortable sharing, students may opt to post a photo of the finished project in the classroom.

This lesson was previously taught in my class Art Club - Acrylic Painting. 

Prior basic painting experience is recommended for this class.