Artwork #3: Relief Collage

Overview

Goal

Students will explore the process of creating a relief collage inspired by Eric Carle by painting or colored and texturing their own papers, cutting and layering shapes, and incorporating raised elements to add depth. They will develop an understanding of composition, color relationships, and texture while enhancing their craftsmanship and creative problem-solving skills.

Materials

Surface: Drawing Paper, Watercolor Paper, Pastel Paper, Magazines, Newspaper, Music Notes, Scrapbook Paper
Backboard: Poster Board, Paper, Mat Board
Materials: Colored Pencils, Chalk Pastels, Oil Pastels, Sharpie, Watercolor

Step 1: What is it?

Write the definitions in your sketchbook.

What is relief?

Relief is a sculptural technique where elements are raised above a flat background, creating a three-dimensional effect. It is commonly used in sculpture, printmaking, and mixed media.

What is a relief collage?

- Relief Collage is made out of paper that is already colored (magazines or construction paper) or has been colored/painted before it was cut into different shapes and glued to a surface to create a raised 3-dimensional effect.

Step 2: Remember Eric Carle?

Step 3: Artist Research

Research 1 of the following artists and answer the following questions in your sketchbook:
1. Who is the artist, and what are they best known for? (Include their full name, time period, and artistic style or movement.)
2. What major themes or messages does the artist explore in their work, and why?
3. How did the artist’s personal life, experiences, or historical context influence their artwork?
4. What materials and techniques does the artist use, and how do they contribute to their style?
5. What is one significant artwork by this artist, and how does it reflect their artistic approach?
6. How has this artist impacted the art world or influenced other artists?

Step 4: Mini Flower Relief Practice

Paint or color areas on a piece of paper with different colors and textures. Use sponges, scraping tools, and techniques to create different looks.
When dry, draw on top of the colored areas the different parts of a flower.
1. Center
2. Pedals
3. Stem
4. Leaf
Cut out the shapes and glue them together to create a flower.
You can draw on top of the shapes to create more depth, textures and patterns.

Step 5: Develop an Idea

Find a subject or theme that interests you or brainstorm your own.
Sketch at least 2 different ideas in your sketchbook. Think about what materials you would use. How you could incorporate a variety of colors and textures? The more layers, the better!
- In your sketches, label the materials, colors, techniques, etc.

Subjects

Subject refers to what the artwork is about on a literal level. It is the main focus or recognizable imagery in the artwork.

Themes

Theme refers to the deeper meaning or message behind the artwork. It is the underlying idea, emotion, or concept that the artist is exploring. Themes are often broad and can be interpreted in different ways.

My Favorite Place
Seasons of the Year
Under the Sea
Outer Space Adventures
Animal Kingdom
Fantasy Worlds
Mood Colors
My Daily Life
Nature Up Close
Fruit
Antique Cars
Fair Food

Step 6: Begin Creating

Use watercolor paper if you are painting
Use drawing paper if you are using any drawing medium
Do not use any construction paper. This is not allowed.
You may supplement (minimally) with scrapbook paper or other paper like dictionary pages, music notes, newspaper.
Your background can be any type or paper, poster board, mat board, etc.

Step 7: Work on Art Portfolio

Reference the art portfolio requirements and complete your portfolio.

Reflection Questions & Artist Statement

Reflection Questions

Answer ALL of the following questions by copying and pasting them into your portfolio:

How did your use of textures and different techniques contribute to the overall mood of your collage?
In what ways did layering and depth impact your composition, and how did you decide which pieces to raise or overlap?
What challenges did you face in cutting, assembling, and adhering your layers, and how did you overcome them?
If you could make changes or add to your piece, what would you do differently, and why?

Artist Statement Questions

Use the following questions to write a short paragraph about your artwork:

What did you make?
Why did you make it?
What does your artwork mean?
How did you make your artwork?

Your artist statement can include:

Your inspiration
Themes you explored
Personal connections to your work
Information about the creative process (techniques, materials, etc)

Report abuse