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 Click for larger imageExercise: Social Studies/Visual Art
Objectives and Overview
To complete this exercise, students will illustrate comprehension of 19th Century American landscape painting, creating original works of art using a variety of media, techniques, and sources for subject matter. *To modify this exercise ask students to research the historical and cultural context of works created by Hudson River School artists and then create a landscape painting in their style.
Materials
Transparency or color copy of Emigrants Crossing the Plains
9x12" heavy-weight paper (120-160# watercolor paper or tag board) or canvas board
Pencils
Painting media (watercolor, tempera, or acrylics)
Brushes
Water and water cups or bowls
Paper or Styrofoam plates or plastic palettes
Paper towels
Project Procedure
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Using Bierstadt's painting, Emigrants Crossing the Plains, review the principles of art by asking students to identify and describe each of the following:
- Rhythm, balance, contrast, movement, variety, center of interest, and repetition
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Next ask students to identify and describe the elements of design listed below:
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Lines (characteristics and qualities), colors (primary, secondary, complementary, intermediates, neutrals, tints, tones, shades, and values), shapes (geometric versus organic), textures (tactile versus visual), and space (background, middleground, foreground, and perspective)
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Working with a piece of paper or canvas board and pencils, ask students to lay out the composition for their own original landscape painting, making sure to fill the entire picture plane and demonstrating their knowledge of the principles of art and elements of design. The subject for their composition be drawn from their observations, memories, or imaginations.
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Next have students apply paint to their composition, showing safe and proper use, care, and storage of media, materials, and equipment, as well as thoughtfulness and care in the completion of their artwork.
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*Modification: Have students access and use a variety of appropriate to gather information about the Hudson River School. Using this information, each student will create an original landscape painting, composed in the style of Hudson River School artists.
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