Time Traveling Artists: Mixed Media Art History Club

Pablo Picasso once said, "Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up." 

Have you ever been to an art museum and seen a painting or sculpture that just made you feel confused? Maybe you've wondered, "how can this be art?". The famous question is: what exactly IS art? 

Learning about modern and contemporary art movements can help artists of all ages answer those difficult questions, discover their own style of art, and find ways to communicate and discuss art with an educated, balanced point of view. In this ongoing class we will discuss and review one famous artist each week and then complete an art project inspired by that artist and art movement. 

This art course will cover the following artists weekly from August - December 2024: 

• Kandinsky: ruler, markers
• Hilma af Klint: drawing, sketching (painting optional but encouraged - any type of paint will work)
• Henri Matisse: collage (scissors, glue and construction paper), or you can paint/sketch instead if you prefer.
• Picasso: sketching/drawing, might be helpful to have a ruler. Painting optional. 
• Sonia Delaunay: colors and patterns; painting and drawing, or experiment with fabrics by bringing small scraps of fabric and acrylic paint, glue and scissors.
• Klimt: gold paintings; if possible bring gold paint or glitter glue. 
• Warhol/Pop Art: drawing paper, markers, crayons or pastels (or paint, if preferred). Optional: tracing paper
Salvador Dali/Surrealism: drawing/painting surrealist art.
• Frida Khalo: self-portrait with your choice of medium (pencil, charcoal, chalk or pastels)
• Georgia O'Keeffe: bring a flower or object to sketch close-up.
• Stella/Minimalism: pen, paper.
• Sol LeWitt/conceptual art: any art medium of choice
• Yayoi Kusama/polka dots: markers, colored pencils or crayons in several colors. 
• Street artists: pencil, Sharpie, markers
• Cherokee/Muskogee art: paint or chalk/pastels & drawing tools
• Yinka Shonibare/textile sculpture. Learners can bring drawing tools to sketch ideas. If possible, another option is to bring posable doll (i.e., Barbie or art model) and fabric, doll clothing, paints and art supplies. 

 
In each class we will spend the first portion of class learning about the artist and viewing their famous works of art that will inspire our project. Learners are encouraged to share their opinions and ask questions in an open discussion as we review a short slide presentation together. Some presentations may include a short video. Next, we will work on our projects, which will vary depending on the schedule. Please check the supply list upon enrollment, and reminders are posted a day in advance. Some classes may require a printed template/printout, so it's best to check your email and/or the classroom page prior to logging in for class.

As with all of my art classes, I focus on self-expression and helping learners find their confidence in creating art. There is no pressure to create, and learners will find that my classes and teaching style fosters a calm, inviting atmosphere. I encourage exploration and curiosity. 

Learners of all abilities are welcome in my classroom. Please contact me if there are any special requests or needs that I should be aware of. Learners outside the suggested age range should contact me for any possible exceptions. 

I hope to meet you in class!