Cubist Arts Masterpiece

Lesson Overview

Duration: 45 minutes
Class Size: 10 students
Age Group: Key Stage 2 (ages 9-11)
Unit: Cubist Mask Creations
Lesson Number: 9 of 10
Lesson Title: Painting and Finishing Touches

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

1. Apply Cubist Style: Use their previously created colour palettes to paint their masks in a manner that reflects Cubist principles.
2. Add Details and Patterns: Incorporate final details and patterns that enhance the visual interest of their masks.
3. Engage in Self-Reflection: Evaluate their work and compare it against the requirements of the Cubist style.

National Curriculum Links

This lesson aligns with the following UK National Curriculum objectives for Art and Design:

• Use a range of techniques and processes to explore colour, pattern, shape, and form.
• Evaluate and analyse creative works using the language of art, craft, and design.
• Develop and communicate ideas through drawing, painting, and sculpture.

Resources

• Students’ clay masks (created in previous lessons)
• Pre-prepared colour palettes (created in earlier lessons)
• Acrylic paints (varied colours)
• Brushes of various sizes
• Water cups for rinsing brushes
• Palettes for mixing colours
• Sponges and rags for clean-up
• Paper aprons or old shirts to protect clothing
• Visual aids showcasing Cubist artworks

Lesson Structure

Introduction (7 minutes)

1. Welcome and Objectives Overview:
   Begin by welcoming students and reiterating the objectives for the lesson. Discuss briefly how Cubism involves breaking objects into geometric shapes and how this will influence their painting choices.

2. Group Discussion:
   Invite students to share their thoughts on the colour palettes they created and how they plan to implement them. Ask exploratory questions such as:

   • What emotions do your chosen colours evoke?
   • How can you use shapes to convey movement or depth in your mask?

Main Activity (30 minutes)

Step 1: Painting the Masks (20 minutes)

1. Demonstration:
   Provide a brief demonstration on how to apply paint in layers, allowing for drying time and creating depth. Emphasise bold strokes and the importance of geometric shapes in applying colour.

2. Hands-On Painting:
   Students will then begin painting their masks, ensuring they:

   • Use different brushes to create various textures.
   • Layer colours to enhance the Cubist style.
   • Focus on applying patterns that might be seen in Cubist works (e.g., stripes, dots).

Step 2: Adding Final Details (10 minutes)

1. Pattern Application:
   Students will add final details, using smaller brushes or sponges to implement patterns that complement their designs. Encourage experimentation with mixing colours on their palettes for unique effects.

2. Peer Review Time:
   Once the masks are painted, students will pair up to discuss their work. Each student should provide at least one piece of constructive feedback focusing on the use of colour and adherence to Cubist characteristics.

Conclusion (8 minutes)

1. Reflection and Discussion:
   Gather students and invite them to discuss their experiences. Questions to prompt reflection include:

   • What did you enjoy most about painting your mask?
   • How did the Cubist style influence your choices?

2. Homework Assignment:
   Ask students to take a few moments to sketch an idea for their next artwork that incorporates Cubist principles (which will be elaborated on in the final lesson). Remind them to consider the colours and patterns they've used in their masks.

Assessment and Evaluation

• Formative Assessment: Observe students during the painting process, providing feedback on technique and adherence to the Cubist style.
• Peer Evaluation: Utilise the peer review segment to assess student understanding and ability to articulate their design choices.
• Self-Reflection: Encourage students to reflect on their learning journey at the end of the unit, focusing on skills acquired and areas for further development.

Additional Notes

• Prepare for potential spills by ensuring newspaper sheets are down in the workspace.
• Facilitate a positive and encouraging atmosphere to support all students, particularly those who may feel less confident in their artistic abilities.
• Ensure all students wash their brushes and hands thoroughly post-activity to maintain cleanliness.

This detailed lesson plan is designed to engage students, deepen their understanding of Cubism, and encourage creativity in their mask-making process.