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Art in Space
Art in Space
Our solar system is truly an amazing place. All of the planets revolving around the sun, at their very own pace, in their very own way. Each one of the eight planets is incredibly different. They are different sizes and colors, they are made up of different things, they have different numbers of moons and other unique characteristics.
Scientists study planets in a variety of ways. In recent years, scientists from NASA have been able to get images of the planets from the satellites and spacecraft they send out to explore. Once the scientists get the images, they are able to draw conclusions about the planets by observing the characteristics of each photo. For example, to learn about the planets, scientists look for shapes on their surfaces. When scientists see the shape of a circle, they usually think that it is a crater caused by some sort of impact, like a meteor.
Interestingly enough, some of the characteristics scientists look for are the same as things artists use and look for when creating art, such as shape, color, texture, etc. You may recognize these words as elements of art. Monica and Tyler Aiello are a husband and wife team of artists who base their work mostly on things they see in space, watch this video to check out their work.
For this art project, you are going to create a collage of the planets, using actual images of the planets, what you can tell about each planet using the elements of art and the planetary match for each one, and watercolor techniques.
Steps:
1. Take a look at these images of the planets. As you look, use the chart of the elements of art and the planetary match for close observation of the planets. Study the images of the planets and their relative sizes as well as the image that show the distance each planet is from the sun.
2. Watch the instructional video to learn how to make a collage of the planets using watercolor techniques and what we know about their physical characteristics including size, lines, color, textures, etc.
3. Create your planets and the sun. As you work, remember what you know about the elements of art. For this project, try to focus on the elements of color and texture and the principle of proportion. While the planets are drying use an additional piece of paper to create the space around the planets. When everything is dry, assemble your solar system. Be sure to place the planets the correct distance away from the sun and in the correct order!
4. Show your finished collage to a friend or a family member. Point out each planet, describe the watercolor technique you used to paint it and why you made that choice, explain the order of the planets and why they are not spaced evenly.
5. Last, complete your Artist’s Statement. You can use this form or you can write about your work on your own. Be sure to discuss the process of your artwork, how you created it, explain the artistic choices you made, share one thing you love about your collage and one thing you would change if you could.
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