Principles of Art

In this 8-week course, students will learn about the 8 principles of art: contrast, emphasis, repetition and pattern, variety, proportion and scale, rhythm and movement, balance, and unity. Each week students will learn about one of these elements and look at famous artwork and artists that incorporate these principles. Students will be asked about what they see in the artwork and have a discussion about what they think the topic of the week means and how they would use it in their art. 

Next, students will make art of their own based on the principle of that week. Though this is taught mainly though a directed drawing type of teaching style, the students will be encouraged to add anything they want to make their work unique to them. We will draw, paint, and make paper collages using a variety of subjects that include energetic self portraits, giant pets, and name creatures.

Art principle, project, and medium for each week:
Week 1: Contrast- notan, paper collage
Week 2: Emphasis- abstract shapes, watercolor
Week 3: Repetition/Pattern- pattern shapes, drawing
Week 4: Variety- abstract shapes, paper collage
Week 5: Proportion and Scale- giant pets, drawing
Week 6: Rhythm and Movement- moving figures, paper collage
Week 7: Balance- name creatures, drawing
Week 8: Unity/Harmony- triptych, student choice of materials