Exploring Louise Despont

Overview

This detailed lesson plan for seventh-grade art students spans three days, introducing them to the works of contemporary artist Louise Despont. Through research, discussion, and a hands-on project, students will delve into her techniques and themes, ultimately creating artwork inspired by her style.

Curriculum Area

Visual Arts - Grade 7
Aligned with National Core Arts Standards (NCAS):

• Creating: Anchor Standard 2 (Organize and develop artistic ideas and work)
• Responding: Anchor Standard 8 (Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work)
• Connecting: Anchor Standard 11 (Relate artistic ideas and works to societal, cultural, and historical context to deepen understanding)

Materials Required

• Images of Louise Despont’s artwork
• Drawing paper (11x14 inches)
• Pencils
• Colored pencils and pastels
• Rulers
• Compasses
• Projector and screen for presentation
• Art journals

Day 1: Introduction to Louise Despont

Objectives

• Introduce students to Louise Despont's life and artistic style.
• Develop skills in analyzing the elements of art within Despont's work.

Activities

1. Introduction (10 minutes)

   • Begin with a discussion on contemporary art. Ask students what they know about it and list a few contemporary artists they are familiar with.
   • Introduce Louise Despont, providing a brief overview of her background and artistic approach.

2. Presentation (15 minutes)

   • Show a slideshow of selected works by Despont. Use visuals to highlight her use of intricate designs, line work, and repetition.
   • Facilitate a discussion on her use of geometry and how these elements create harmony and balance.

3. Journal Reflection (10 minutes)

   • Ask students to write in their art journals about their first impressions of Despont’s work. Encourage them to note elements they like or find intriguing.

4. Pair and Share (5 minutes)

   • Students pair up and share their reflections with a partner, discussing similarities and differences in their perceptions.

5. Assessment (4 minutes)

   • Conduct a quick verbal assessment with open-ended questions:
     • What elements or principles of art did you notice in Despont’s work?
     • How does her art make you feel?

Day 2: Delving into Techniques

Objectives

• Analyze and interpret the symbolism and meaning in Despont's artwork.
• Explore geometry as a foundational element in her art.

Activities

1. Warm-up Activity (5 minutes)

   • Quick sketch exercise using geometric shapes to create a pattern.

2. Discussion (10 minutes)

   • Discuss the role of geometry and symmetry in Despont's art. Show examples and highlight how she uses repetition and pattern to convey meaning.

3. Hands-On Exploration (20 minutes)

   • Distribute drawing materials. Instruct students to create their own geometric patterns inspired by Despont’s style.
   • Begin with a central shape and build outwards, focusing on symmetry and balance.

4. Reflection and Sharing (5 minutes)

   • Students walk around the room and view each other’s work.
   • Gather for a brief discussion: What was challenging? What did you enjoy about using geometry in art?

5. Assessment (4 minutes)

   • Collect art journals for a formative assessment. Review their reflections and notes on Despont’s technique.

Day 3: Creating Inspired Art

Objectives

• Apply knowledge of Despont's techniques to create original artwork.
• Demonstrate an understanding of balance and harmony through geometric design.

Activities

1. Introduction (5 minutes)

   • Recap key concepts of Despont’s art: geometry, balance, and symmetry.
   • Discuss how personal ideas can be expressed using these techniques.

2. Project Work (30 minutes)

   • Students use drawing materials to create a piece of art inspired by Louise Despont.
   • Instruct students to consider a theme or message they want to convey, using geometric design as their method of expression.

3. Gallery Walk and Peer Review (5 minutes)

   • Display completed artworks around the room. Students conduct a gallery walk.
   • Each student provides constructive feedback on two pieces, focusing on successful use of geometric techniques.

4. Final Reflection and Assessment (4 minutes)

   • Students write a short paragraph in their journals reflecting on their learning process and outcome.
   • Summative assessment based on their engagement level, creative application of Despont's techniques, and personal reflection.

Final Notes

This lesson plan aims to develop students’ appreciation and understanding of contemporary art techniques while fostering creativity and self-expression. By engaging with the style of Louise Despont, students will learn to merge critical thinking with artistic practice, aligning with essential learning outcomes and educational standards.