Abstract Art

The Portfolio Prep class is beginning a unit in Abstract Art. We began with a one-day exercise inspired by Franz Kline. We studied some Abstract Artists and looked at examples then worked through another exercise before beginning a more in-depth project.

Click here to review the presentation on Franz Kline and Abstract Art.

Abstract Art Presentation & Examples

AP Critique

My AP students are beginning their 6th project in their concentration and they are really starting to take shape. I have put together an online gallery that we will be using for a peer critique of the first 5 pieces (Example of one portfolio above). Take a moment to check out their hard work!

AP Online Gallery

Color Schemes

If you are looking for color inspiration check out Kuler from Adobe. It is a web-hosted application for generating color themes. You can focus on a particular color range and as you change other colors, Kuler adjusts to make sure all of your colors are working together. This would be a great way to experiment when you feel like your project needs a pop of color, or when you need to introduce something new into your composition. You can make a free account and save the color schemes you have created or explore color schemes that other users have created.

Self-Portrait Inspiration

(this is not the best example... but my niece is pretty adorable, right?)

This site, dripbook, markets itself as "Today's Hottest Portfolios from Leading Creative Professionals". Take a look around for and let it spark some creativity.

One particular photographer, Robin Cerutti, has an array of portraits with beautiful examples of expression, lighting, point of view, setting, and more ways to bring personality and identity to the subject. Check it out for some inspiration on your next self-portrait.

A taste of industrial design

Another amazing way to expose students to the world of industrial design and engineering!

Back to the Future: Technology

Check out this new app, still in development, to make the lost art of letterpress available to typography lovers everywhere :) I can't wait to someday use this to teach my students about the letterpress process and let them get a taste of the real thing!

The Google Art Project

To begin our next painting assignment, you each will be exploring various works of art through the Google Art Project. http://www.googleartproject.com/

While you explore the many museums, artists, and individual works of art, be on the look out for styles, techniques, or just overall feelings that strike you. You will need to identify THREE paintings by THREE different artists that you would like to explore further. These paintings must be from at least TWO different museums. Once you have identified the three paintings, leave a comment on this post with the hyperlink to each work of art. Links must be posted by midnight Thursday 3/24.

Have fun!