Visual Journal, Sketchbook 4 Week Art Class: Mixed Media Lessons (Weeks 13-16)
This 4-week class teaches students to repurpose a used hardback book through drawing, painting, and collaging techniques turning each page into a work of art. Each lesson focuses on self-expression while learning new art techniques.
What's included
4 pre-recorded lessons
4 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentHomework
1-2 hours per week. Once the demo videos and materials have been reviewed students have the opportunity to use the material and technique in their own visual journal that week.Class Experience
US Grade 8 - 11
Beginner Level
This 4-week art-focused, self-paced class focuses on visual journals, also called altered books or junk journals. Students will take a used hardback book and create works of art on the pages. Through this class, they will learn how to incorporate watercolor paint, Sharpies and paint pens, easy at home printmaking techniques, and create a page through chance using my roll-a-design page. This art class is ideal for middle and high-school-age students. When I taught high school art this was often my students' favorite project. It's a space for students to learn and experiment with new art materials and techniques while expressing themselves creatively. This art project is all about personal taste, style, and aesthetic. It's perfect for students wanting to test out a range of art styles and materials. Once students review the demo video and materials the homework portion of this class is for the student to apply the materials and techniques to their own visual journal. I anticipate it taking the student 1-3 hours to complete their visual journal page depending on how in-depth they go and what materials they are using. If students have any questions or want feedback I will respond within 24 hours during the week and within 48 hours over the weekend. 4 lessons are included in this pack over the course of 4 weeks. The lessons focus on watercolor techniques, using Sharpies and paint pens, easy printmaking techniques, and creating a random design through my roll-a-design guide. Students will follow along with the instruction overview and demo video to learn the techniques they will be using that week. Following the step-by-step guide they will create a unique work of art in their visual journal. They can check their work to ensure they cover all techniques by going through the class checklist. Visual journaling offers a space for students to express themselves. This is incredibly important, especially for developing tweens and teens. Problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity are pushed in every assignment. I hope students continue to work in their visual journals long after this course.
Learning Goals
Students will learn how to express themselves creatively and how to use a wide range of art materials and techniques. Through this four-week class, students learn a range of watercolor techniques, at home printmaking techniques, ways to use Sharpies and paint pens, and following a fun roll-a-design guide.
Syllabus
4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
How to Use Watercolors
Students are introduced to the traditional art material, watercolor. A demo video is included that shows nine ways watercolor can be used in their visual journal. A reference guide is also included to help guide students as they work in their visual journals this week.
Lesson 2:
Using Paint Pens and Sharpies
Students will create graphic style works of art by incorporating paint pens and/or Sharpies in their visual journals this week. A demo video walks students through 8 ways they can use the material in their books. Students can also reference a guide to inspire their paint pen and Sharpie page.
Lesson 3:
Easy Printmaking Techniques
Students are introduced to six different print making techniques they can incorporate in their visual journals. A demo video shows each process and a guide is included for students to reference as they create their printmaking-focused visual journal pages.
Lesson 4:
Roll-A-Design Activity
Students leave their visual journal design up to chance once again by following another roll-a-design guide. They roll a die for each step, which determines the color, materials, and subject for their work of art. This fun activity will push students to try designs they normally wouldn’t.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
At times students will have the option to use material that may be messy, such as paint, or require adult supervision, such as scissors or an Xacto Knife. A range of materials is always introduced to allow students to select what interests them most. If you don't have access to supplies or prefer a supply isn't used I will recommend other options.
Pre-Requisites
If you haven't taken my Introduction to visual journals class, that is the best starting point. You can sign up for the one-week intro here: http://bit.ly/48qqrpc or the full 4-week intro here: https://bit.ly/4axM3Sn
Supply List
Students will need physical supplies to complete assignments. Required materials include a used hardback book, magazines that can be cut up, scissors, glue, watercolor paint, water cups, paintbrushes, Sharpies, paint pens, and optional materials for this course depending on what students choose to focus on and what you have on hand at home. If you don’t have access to supplies alternatives can be found: foil, washable markers, waterproof markers, potatoes, knife (for adult use), cookie cutters, paint (acrylic or tempera), bubble wrap (assorted sizes and styles), fresh or silk leaves, shaving cream, food coloring (or liquid watercolor), toothpicks, vegetable oil or similar, pastels, bleeding tissue paper, India ink, neutral colored paper.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
No outside sources are needed to complete this course.
Teacher expertise and credentials
4 teachers have teaching certificates
Georgia Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Non-US Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
Georgia Teaching Certificate in Special Education
North Carolina Teaching Certificate in Secondary Education
4 teachers have a Graduate degree
Doctoral Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from University of Arts in Belgrade
Master's Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from University of Arts in Belgrade
Master's Degree in Education from Georgia College and State University
Master's Degree in Education from University of Georgia
Master's Degree in Education from Georgia State University
9 teachers have a Bachelor's degree
Bachelor's Degree in English from Kennesaw State University
Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science from Vassar College
Bachelor's Degree in Education from Georgia Southern University
Bachelor's Degree in Communications from Ramapo College of New Jersey
Bachelor's Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from University of Georgia
Bachelor's Degree in Education from UNCP
Bachelor's Degree in Science from Oglethorpe University
Bachelor's Degree in Science from Hampshire College
Bachelor's Degree in History from Georgia State University
I can't remember not having art in my life. I was raised by an art teacher, got my bachelor's and master's in art education, taught art-focused summer camps, volunteered in art classrooms, and taught high school art for over 12 years. Now I develop art lessons and curriculums for other teachers or homeschool parents to implement in their art classrooms. I love the flexibility virtual teaching offers me while still allowing me to be involved in education. Please reach out anytime with questions or comments!
Reviews
Self-Paced Course
$15
weekly4 pre-recorded lessons
4 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content
Completed by 1 learner
Ages: 13-17