Unit 2: Exploring Transparency and Mastering the Masters

Unit 2: Response

Students will investigate many different ways in which artists respond to their ideas and beliefs. Students will investigate how artists and viewers of art respond to color and medium choices.

Title: Exploring Transparency and Mastering the Masters

Unit Overview:

In this unit, students will explore the concept of transparency in art through two distinct projects aimed at developing their drawing and painting skills. The first project will focus on transparent glass drawing, where students will learn how to accurately depict the transparent qualities of glass objects through observational drawing techniques. The second project will involve creating an exact replica of a masterpiece by a master artist, allowing students to study and replicate the techniques and styles of these artists to create their own masterpieces.

Unit Objectives:

• To develop observational drawing skills through the study of transparent glass objects.

• To understand the concept of transparency in art and how it can be effectively depicted through various drawing techniques.

• To analyze and replicate the techniques and styles of master painters to create faithful replicas of their works.

• To develop a deeper appreciation for the artistic process and the works of master artists.

Project 1: Transparent Glass Drawing

In this project, students will learn how to accurately observe and depict the transparent qualities of glass objects through still life drawing. They will study the play of light and shadow on the surfaces of glass objects and practice techniques such as shading, highlighting, and creating reflections to capture the transparency and three-dimensional qualities of the objects. Students will use various drawing materials such as pencils, charcoal, or ink to create their drawings.

Project 2: Masterpiece Replication

In this project, students will select a masterpiece by a master artist whose style they admire and study it closely. They will analyze the techniques used by the artist, such as brushwork, color mixing, composition, and use of light and shadow. Using their understanding of the master's style, students will then create an exact replica of the chosen masterpiece, aiming to faithfully reproduce the original artwork in terms of size, color, composition, and technique. This project will challenge students to pay close attention to detail and develop a deep understanding of the master's artistic choices.

Assessment:

Students will be assessed based on their ability to demonstrate understanding and application of the techniques learned in both projects. Assessment criteria will include accuracy of observation, use of drawing and painting techniques, faithfulness to the original masterpiece, attention to detail, and overall artistic expression. Additionally, students will be encouraged to reflect on their own artistic growth throughout the unit and how their skills have developed through the exploration of transparency and replication of master artists' works.

By the end of this unit, students will have acquired valuable skills in observational drawing, painting techniques, and artistic analysis, preparing them for further exploration and development in their artistic journey.

Unit Description: In the "Transformation: Exploring Change and Renewal Through Visual Art" unit, high school artists will embark on a creative journey to explore the concept of transformation through their artistic expressions. This unit is designed to challenge students to reflect on personal growth, societal change, and the transformative power of art itself. Through analysis, hands-on projects, and critical discussions, students will enhance their artistic skills while gaining a deeper understanding of how art can communicate the process of change and renewal.

Unit Objectives: By the end of this unit, students will be able to:

• Analyze the concept of transformation in personal, societal, and artistic contexts.

• Apply various artistic techniques to visually represent different aspects of transformation.

• Create artworks that communicate the process of change and renewal.

• Understand the role of art in conveying complex emotions and narratives.

• Reflect on the connection between transformation and artistic expression.

Key Concepts:

• Transformation: The process of undergoing significant change or renewal, whether personal, societal, or artistic.

• Symbolism: The use of visual symbols to convey deeper meanings and emotions in art.

Assessment: Assessment in this unit will focus on:

• Depth of analysis and interpretation of transformation in different contexts.

• Completion of art projects that effectively convey the concept of transformation.

• Application of various artistic techniques to evoke emotions and portray change.

• Thoughtful reflection on the connection between transformation and artistic expression.

Week-by-Week Breakdown:

Week 1-2: Understanding Transformation

• Introduction to the concept of transformation and its significance.

• Analysis of artworks that depict various aspects of change and renewal.

• Exploration of personal, societal, and artistic transformations.

Week 3-4: Symbolism and Metaphor

• Introduction to the use of symbolism and metaphor in art.

• Experimentation with visual symbols that represent transformation.

• Creating artworks that use symbolism to convey the idea of change.

Week 5-6: Personal Transformation

• Exploration of personal experiences of growth and renewal.

• Hands-on projects that visually narrate personal transformation.

• Reflection on the role of art in expressing and processing change.

Week 7-8: Societal and Artistic Change

• Analysis of societal changes and historical moments of transformation.

• Creation of artworks that comment on societal shifts and challenges.

• Reflecting on the transformative power of art to inspire change.

Culminating Activity: Transformation Art Showcase The unit culminates in a Transformation Art Showcase where students present their artworks that reflect the concept of transformation. This showcase provides an opportunity for students to share their artistic interpretations of change and renewal with peers and families.

Integration with Artistic Principles:

• Symbolism and Expression: The unit aligns with artistic principles about using symbolism to convey emotions and narrative elements in artworks.

• Art as Commentary: Discussions about societal transformation encourage students to see their role as artists who can reflect and comment on the world around them.

By exploring the theme of transformation, students will not only enhance their artistic skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for the power of art to communicate complex ideas and emotions related to change and renewal.