Aboriginal Dot Painting

Submitted by: Brenda Belongia - Shared Time Art instructor
Class: Painting 1
Exploring Culture through Paint
Lesson: Aboriginal Dot Painting

 

Procedures:

We began this project by reading and researching the history of Aboriginal Art, where it began in cave drawings and paintings, how it was used as a form of storytelling, and mapping landmarks. 
 

We discussed the perspectives see in a variety of paintings, the various symbols that were repeated throughout the paintings, patterns, and what each symbol meant.
 
We looked at the similarities and differences between modern Aboriginal Art and ancient Aboriginal Artwork, the colors as well as composition and subjects. (Click on the images for full size)

 

We worked rather large, and seeing as the traditional art form is done as a group I paired students up to work together on one project, They were expected to collaborate together to come up with an interesting design that showed Aboriginal influence. They could do this by using the symbols discussed in class, the various patterns seen in Aboriginal Artwork, The art form itself being composed of dots, or a combination of dots and solid colors.
 
We used basic tempera, primary colors, as well as black and white only so they were expected to mix the colors for their composition,(we did this project right after projects on mixing the full spectrum of colors as well as tints and shades)  I have small lidded containers where they simply tape their name on them if they need large quantities mixed and saved. 
 
Students were graded not only on the quality of the work, effort, visible influence from Aboriginal works, and composition, but also on how well they worked together as partners, and each student was given individual grades as well as a group grade for this project.

All the students are told at the beginning of the school year and understand that I photograph their work for educational purposes and use them as class examples and online, and if they ever do not want work displayed this way they are to let me know, these pictures were all taken with students' full knowledge.

 

See also Aboriginal Bark Painting, Aboriginal Art Technology, Aboriginal Dot Painting, and Petroglyph People art lessons. (Click on the lessons below for full size)

 

 

Materials:

• Tempera Paint

• Drawing Paper or Kraft Paper

• Drawing Pencils

• Aboriginal Resources (See below)

Resources:

I used several images compiled from online resources of both modern Aboriginal Art work and ancient aboriginal works. I also used The Scholastic Art magazine from 2001-Australian Aboriginal Artists to read through together and discuss, as well as the website: www.aboriginalartonline.com/

 

Book: Aboriginal Art - This is the first concise survey of the full range of the work of Australia's indigenous artists from all parts of the continent.

Book: Aboriginal Designs - With this collection of decorative patterns, borders, and motifs, those needing ideas for a project will be able to duplicate or simply be inspired by the stunning designs in this book.

Book: One Sun One Moon: Aboriginal Art in Australia - In this volume every aspect of aboriginal art is explored in detail and illustrated in brilliant color. The result is a comprehensive guide to a fascinating tradition whose significance can be fully appreciated through it.

Poster: Anbangbang, Nourlangie Rock - Painting of dancing figures at Nourlangie Rock, sacred aboriginal shelter and rock art site in the north east of Kakadu National Park.