RESOURCE GUIDEBOOK FOR EDUCATORS
The Great Mosque & Islamic Geometric Art in Watercolours
Background:
Students will learn to construct a geometric pattern found in the Great Mosque of Cordoba in Spain using a template. They will recreate the pattern on watercolour paper and then tessellate it to make a larger class composition.
Educational Objectives:
Visual Art
Create two-dimensional, three-dimensional, and multimedia art works that explore feelings, ideas, and issues from a variety of points of view.
Use elements of design in art works to communicate ideas, messages, and understandings.
Use a variety of materials, tools, techniques, and technologies to determine solutions to design challenges.
Identify and describe some of the ways in which art forms and styles reflect the beliefs and traditions of a variety of communities, times, and places.
Mathematics
Geometry: Create designs by reflecting, translating, and/or rotating a shape, or shapes, by 90º or 180º
Patterning: Extend and create repeating patterns that result from rotations, through investigation using a variety of tools
Materials:
Ruler
Math compass
Pencils
Coloured markers
Watercolour paints
Watercolour paint brushes
Erasers
Watercolour paper
Activity:
Read and discuss children's book: “The Most Magnificent Mosque by Ann Jungman”
Watch YouTube video to introduce the Great Mosque of Cordoba/Mesquita: “Historic Centre of Cordoba (UNESCO)” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULptVmaMjYw
Students learn to construct a geometric pattern found in the Great Mosque of Cordoba in Spain using the template and steps provided by Eric Broug. Additional patterns with templates and steps are available here: http://www.sigd.org/resources/pattern/
Students recreate the pattern on watercolour paper, without a template. Be sure to provide the dimensions of the circle so that the pattern can be tessellated to make a larger class composition. Students paint the tiles in their choice of colours.
For intermediate students and/or students looking for an additional challenge, have them create a watercolour painting on a square grid (which they draw) such as this:
Template:
Template - Great Mosque of Cordoba.pdfSteps for Pattern:
Steps for Pattern - Great Mosque of Cordoba.pdfMOROCCAN MOTIF IN WATERCOLOURS
Grades 9-12
