Grade 1 Artists studied the work of several abstract artists during the month of October. We began looking at the mobiles of Alexander Calder, who used simple colors and organic, free form shapes in his work. The kids found it exciting to use their imaginations when trying to decide what the shapes looked like to them. We discussed how abstract art can be very interesting in the way we all see something different in it. Lesson found here: https://www.katiemorrisart.com/2011/07/1st-grade-mobile-marker-drawings.html

We also studied the work of Dutch Abstract painter Piet Mondrian (1872-1944). We discussed his simple use of line, shape, and the primary colors. The students tried out his technique, constructing their own Mondrian masterpieces, and in the process practicing techniques in painting, cutting, gluing, and measuring. Lesson found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rb1__xAJwBA

The third artist they studied in this unit was Jean Dubuffet. They had a great time bringing their drawings to live by cutting and building them into 3-D sculpture that stood up on a piece of matboard.  This lesson came from here: http://artipelagoteacher.blogspot.com/2012/11/jean-dubuffet-sculptures.html