The art program at Wesley for grade 7 and 8 students is based upon an exploration of art history, allowing students to examine how art has developed through time. They begin each new time period with an introduction to its key artists, art characteristics, and other important cultural facts of the time. They view and analyze pieces of art produced in that time period, examining how various techniques, styles, and approaches to art change throughout history. Students then create a piece of art based on what they have learned, using the specific styles and techniques that have been discussed.
The grade 8 students explored Impressionism from the 19th century, and examined the art of famous artists such as Van Gogh,Cezanne, and Renoir. They learned that many of the artists from this time created their work as if the viewer was just looking at the subject with a quick glance, using a technique called pointillism. Rather than creating a clearly defined image, only the overall impression would be given.
Each student was asked to bring in an image of a landmark that they would recreate as an Impressionist painting. Students completed a graphite transfer and then used paint and the pointillism technique to complete their painting. They learned how much thought had to go into choosing and blending colours, how to show the small detail in their paintings, and just how much focus and time it takes! The students did an absolutely fabulous job – take a look at their beautiful paintings! There are many more on our Facebook page.
