2D Art Fall 2024

Cross Contour Still Life: Observing with Line 

In this project, 2D art students practiced observational drawing by creating cross contour drawings of a still life arrangement. By focusing on line work, they captured the three-dimensional forms of various objects, emphasizing shape, proportion, and depth. This project aimed to develop students' attention to detail and refine their control over line quality. 

Abstract Value Drawing: Practicing Shading Techniques

In this project, 2D art students created an abstract design by overlapping lines and focusing on value shading. Students practiced controlling pencil pressure to create smooth transitions between 4-6 distinct values in each shape formed by the intersecting lines. The goal was to enhance their ability to shade seamlessly while maintaining clarity between shapes. Through careful blending and varying shading directions, students developed a stronger understanding of how value adds depth and contrast.

Animal Portraits: Drawing with a Grid

In this project, 2D art students practiced observational drawing by creating animal portraits using the grid method to replicate reference photos. Through careful shading, students emphasized the texture and value of their chosen animals, capturing intricate details like fur, scales, or feathers. This project aimed to develop students' ability to observe and translate the subtleties of texture and light into their drawings, refining their understanding of value and enhancing their rendering skills. 

Nature-Inspired Watercolor Prints: Practicing Watercolor Techniques

In this project, 2D art students explored layering and pattern design by creating a visually engaging composition. Students first applied 3-5 watercolor techniques—such as wet-on-wet, dry brush, salt texture, and gradient washes—to form a vibrant abstract background. Once dry, they overlaid their watercolor backgrounds with patterns inspired by natural elements, such as the intricate lines of leaves, spirals of shells, or textures found in animal fur.

Personal Symbol Watercolor: 

For the Personal Symbol Watercolor Painting project, students will design a stencil of a meaningful object or symbol that represents something personal to them. Using watercolor techniques and color schemes, students will create a layered composition, focusing on negative space and value to add depth. The final artwork will demonstrate creativity in design, thoughtful color harmony, and effective use of watercolor techniques. 

Disco Balls: Inspired by artist Sari Shryack

In this project, students explored the vibrant world of color and light by creating acrylic paintings of disco balls, drawing inspiration from artist Sari Shryack. They learned to capture the reflective quality of disco balls while experimenting with analogous color schemes, choosing between warm and cool tones to bring their pieces to life. 

Chuck Close Inspired Paintings

Students studied the artist Chuck Close and his unique painting style. In these acrylic paintings, students explored use of color, texture, and pattern.