Serving Art Educators
and Students Since 1994
PC Paint: Using Line, Shapes and Fill
There are several free paint software programs both on the PC and Mac. Here is a list of lessons and ideas to use with these programs.
1. Study the work of Piet Mondrian using the following Web sites
Carol Gerten Fine Art – Piet Mondrian biography
http://www.cgfaonlineartmuseum.comCarol Gerten Fine Art- Mondrian
http://www.cgfaonlineartmuseum.comThe Artcyclopedia - more works by Mondrian
http://www.artcyclopedia.com/
You will find Paint on your start up menu in Accessories if you are using a computer with the Windows operating system. Create a line and shape composition using the straight-line feature. Fill areas to complete a pleasing arrangement of shape and color. What is your color plan? Is there a center of interest? Is the composition balanced? Save file as your last name – Mondrian. Save as JPEG or bit map (we will convert to JPEG on the machines that do not allow JPEG save option)
2. Linear Perspective. Learn about the tools of linear perspective from the following Web sites:
Create a composition using one point perspective. Include a minimum of three objects drawn in linear perspective. Include at least one rounded shape using spray paint to shade (making the sphere look three dimensional). Save file as your last name- perspective. Save as JPEG or bit map (we will convert to JPEG on the machines that do not allow JPEG save option).
3. Shape combined with text. Study the work of Stuart Davis
Create a composition using text, geometric shapes, irregular shapes. Create a center of interest. Color planning will be important. Save as JPEG or bit map (we will convert to JPEG on the machines that do not allow JPEG save option).
TRY SOME OF THESE MORE CHALLENGING LESSONS:
Technology Lesson Plans Computer graphics lessons--
by Carolyn Roberts
Submitted by: Stephanie Cavallaro
Lesson: Tessellations
In my high school graphic art classes, I incorporate tessellations into my lessons on positive negative space in layouts. We usually all work around the table first before moving to the computer. I hand out paper squares, scissors, pencil, and scotch tape. I walk them through the process of creating a free form tessellating shape from their square. Then we have fun trying to use our imaginations to turn the shapes into something recognizable. So the kids help each other and you hear comments like, "That looks like a turtle playing football!" I facilitate by trying to help the less creative students see their shapes. Believe it or not, I have wiggly eyes on hand. The kids try turning their shape in various ways, then place a wiggly eye or two around and often times they see something instantly! Voila! Inspiration has occurred!
Once everyone has an idea, we move to the computers to use Adobe Illustrator to create the 12 x 18 (30.5 x 46 cm) tessellation. Then the technology really comes in handy!
