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High School Drawing Curriculum: 12 Lessons

HIGH SCHOOL DRAWING

In my teaching career I have taught a wide range of high school art courses: Introduction to Art, Drawing, Painting, Advanced 2D Design, AP Art, 3D Design, 3D Design II, and 3D Design III. I have loved teaching such a variety because it has given me the opportunity to develop and test a breadth of lesson plans. The past two years I have been working on compiling my favorite lessons into curriculum packs to sell on my TPT store. The most recent posting on my store is my semester-long high school drawing curriculum pack. I have taught every single one of these lessons (plus more that I tested, failed, and left out so you don’t have to) and these are my top twelve.

This high school drawing curriculum includes information and resources to fill every single day of the semester in your drawing class. Other than making copies of worksheets and doing a handful of demos, you don’t have to plan a thing for the semester. Each project includes a detailed lesson plan (including big ideas, essential questions, national standards, vocabulary, and step-by-step instructions), rubrics, critique information, and handouts. In addition to the project packs I have included my syllabus, get-to-know-you worksheets, a timeline, breaking down the semester into days and weeks, and supply list.

12 PROJECTS

The first project of the semester is learning the Belgian bookbinding technique and using it to create your own sketchbook. This not only saves money on purchasing sketchbooks, but it also introduces the students to book cover design and bookbinding techniques. In addition to a PowerPoint, lesson plan, and rubric, this also includes a how to worksheet and how to video. This product is sold individually here .

In every class I teach I include a weekly focus on visual journals. Each Friday students have the option to work in their visual journal, have free art time, or catch up on an assignment. By the end of the semester they must have at least 12 pages completed in their book. The PowerPoint to introduce this project, lesson plan, and rubric are included in this pack.

Before the students start longer drawing projects, they complete a shading review. Seven worksheets are included that cover graphite pencils, hatching, cross-hatching, scribbling, stippling, and a general shading worksheet. The front of the worksheets include information and the students must complete the activities on the back. This product can be purchased individually here .

The first true drawing assignment is a still life drawing. However, I put a twist on it by requiring the students to bring in objects to create the still life. Before starting the drawing, the students learn about still lifes at various periods in art history. at both traditional and modern versions of still lifes. They must apply their understanding of various shading techniques by including at least three of them in their drawing. Check out the individual link for this product here .

Once the class has a few drawing projects under their belt, we look at combining technology and art by creating their own GIFs. They must draw the majority of the design, then use various computer programs to compile their drawings, add to them, then create an animated version of them. You can read more about this project in my blog post here .

Once the students have a handle on using pencils, we move onto charcoal drawings. One of the best ways I have found to teach how to shade using charcoal is through the traditional charcoal drapery drawing lesson. A PowerPoint about charcoal, in depth lesson plan, rubric, and critique are included. You can purchase this lesson individually here .

After learning about charcoal, the students apply their knowledge to a mixed media work of art that includes shading with charcoal. For this assignment, the students must select an object and redraw it on a background layered with color and text. The object is meant to serve as a metaphor for who they are, a part of their personality, or interests. I love any cross disciplinary lessons, and this does a great job combining English and art. Check out specifics of this project here .

After completing a metaphorical self portrait, the students are asked to create an actual self portrait drawing, with a twist. The students must select a current event that interests them and reflect it through their portrait. In addition, they have to scan their faces using a copier or scanner to create an unusual and ethereal look to their portrait. They then re-draw their scanned image using pencil. This project pack includes multiple PowerPoints to introduce the project and show examples of current artists who create social and politically driven artwork. In addition to the PowerPoints are an in depth lesson plan, rubric, critique sheet, and brainstorm worksheet. Check out more here .

After working mostly in black and white, students have the chance to do a full color drawing using colored pencils. They are asked to think outside of the box and take a photograph that reflects the topic, “unexpected beauty.” They then turn the photograph into a colored pencil drawing. Colored pencil techniques are covered in the introduction PowerPoint. Check out more information about it here .

After learning about colored pencils, we start moving towards different media that still use traditional drawing techniques, such as scratchboard. Social media is the focus of the lesson and students create a scratchboard image that reflects a snapshot of their day. History of scratchboard, as well as techniques, are in the PowerPoint.  In depth instructions on how to teach the lesson are included in the lesson plan, as well as the rubric and critique sheet. This lesson can be purchased individually here .

Printmaking is a natural next step after learning about scratchboard. The basic concepts are similar, removing highlighted areas and leaving dark areas. For this assignment, students create a portrait out of a linoleum block. They use traditional relief printmaking techniques to create at least 5 quality prints and one print must be colored in using colored pencils. In addition to a PowerPoint, lesson plan, rubric, and critique sheet, this also includes a handout on which colors to use to create a range of skin tones and a worksheet to test various color combinations. An in-depth look at this lesson will be coming soon. In the meantime, check out the product listing here .

The final lesson in the curriculum is to design your own project. The students can try out a technique or material they didn’t get a chance to or redo a project they liked or could improve on.

It took me years to develop this curriculum and it is very gratifying to see it all compiled in one place. Check out the individual product links above or check out the entire curriculum here . You save $16.00 by purchasing it as a bundle pack. Thanks for taking the time to check out my blog and my latest TPT product. Help me spread the word about art education, lessons, and art in general by sharing with others.

Check out more visual journal blog posts  here . Shop my education resources  here . Don’t forget to follow me on  Instagram  and  TikTok  for weekly visual journal demos. Until next time!

4 responses to “High School Drawing Curriculum: 12 Lessons”

This looks very helpful. Thank you!

You’re welcome! Reach out anytime with questions or comments!

Could I get a copy of the worksheets? [email protected]

Hi, Stacy! The worksheets can be purchased in my drawing curriculum or individually. If you want to purchase individually let me know which worksheets you are interested in and I can share links! You can look at the drawing curriculum here: https://lookbetweenthelines.com/product/visual-art-drawing-curriculum-12-lessons-for-18-weeks-of-high-school-art/

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22 Drawing and Painting Lessons & Activities for High School

22 drawing and painting lessons & activities for high school.

These art related lessons and activities teach and demonstrate drawing and painting, along with some tips and instructions, targeted for high school students. This 58-page Water Color Painting Tips and Tricks guide is particularly helpful and instructive. Also included at the end of this list, are two documents on wood carving. You can also check out all of our Art related pages here .

A Fork in the Road Painting Project Agamograph Challenge Art Nouveau Botanical Drawing, Art Lesson Color Mixing – Some General Guidelines Color Pencil Tips Drawing Tools Drawing Value Scales Drawing Warm up Drawing with Colored Pencils Egg Shading Fauvism How to Hold a Pencil Light Capturing Paper Designs Scratch Art Project Sets of Lines Sketchbook Assignments The History of Cubism Two Point Perspective Water Color Painting Tips and Tricks, 58 pages Woodcarving Tips and Tricks Woodcarving Totem Pole Project

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A link to this video might help students understand use of sketchbooks.

South Dakota Public Broadcasting did a short video focusing on my sketchbooks. It was released on YOUTUBE and can be viewed with this link.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8T6S8JGlrWE

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Step by Step Sketchbook Drawing Prompts

Practicing basic drawing techniques can help artists of all ages build confidence and sharpen their technical skills.

I love having my students keep a sketchbook. It’s a great opportunity for students to practice foundational skills, brainstorm artwork ideas, and write and reflect about their own artwork and the artwork of others.

It’s a great place to hit all of the standards of teaching that are NOT about producing finished artworks! I think creativity and self-expression are the pillars of a quality art education, but sometimes it’s time to focus on those drawing basics!

Here is a list of my go-to drawing sketchbook assignments. These are step by step video guided tutorials that are classroom ready or can be done at home! I love doing these in the classroom, but they are perfect for distance learning in our new reality of Covid-19.If you’re not an art teacher or in an art class, draw along with me in your sketchbook to grow your artistic skills.

How to Shade Water Droplets

Facial Proportions for Beginners

Two Point Perspective

One Point Perspective 3-D Letters

Value Scale Zentangle

Contour Drawing

How to Draw an Eye

Value Scale & Sphere Shading

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HI! My name is Sierra Machado and I am an art educator in Oklahoma. This is a creative space dedicated to the craft of teaching and art making. My goal is to inspire young artists, encourage and support fellow art educators and to push myself to create more art. View all posts by Sierra Machado

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7 Easy Art Lessons For When You’re in a Pinch

Sometimes lesson planning comes down to the wire. Maybe your students went through a project much faster than expected, or you simply did not have the time to get ahead of things. We’ve all been there. It’s not unheard of to scour the internet and social media for ideas, but sometimes we still come up short. No art teacher is perfect, and we all need a lesson idea in a pinch from time to time! We don’t want these activities to be fluff or busywork. Instead, we want them to help our students build skills and scaffold learning.

The next time you find yourself in need of a last-minute activity or lesson, look no further. The following seven activities are easily adaptable for various grade levels. They also require minimal material prep and use supplies you likely have in your art room.

1. Personal Soda Can Label

We live in a consumer world where new beverages, food, candy, and snacks are constantly introduced to the market. Teachers and students experience product and brand design —often without even realizing it. Looking at the typography and imagery of different products can spark interesting conversations with both elementary and secondary students.

One way for students to explore the idea of consumerism through product design and advertising is by creating a personal beverage label. This will require students to brainstorm a brand and identity for their product by picking the flavor, color, and overall look. Use the handout below  to get your students started planning their designs.

Once students have designed their labels, you can take this activity a step further by attaching the design to an aluminum can. Have students participate in a reflection or critique activity. Ending the activity here might be appropriate for your elementary students, but you could take it a step further for your middle and high schoolers. Have students use their aluminum can with a custom label for observational drawing. Beginning students often struggle with matching the text and typography on traditional soda cans. Using the label they initially created will help them build confidence in their drawing skills. After practicing observational drawing skills, students add shading to create the illusion of form. High school students can also explore more package design and advertising elements.

Suggested materials: Paper, drawing materials, aluminum cans (optional) Suggested grade levels: Elementary, middle school, high school

2. Crushed Soda Can Drawing

Another simple yet effective way to recycle aluminum cans in your classroom is to crush them and use them for observational drawing. When students learn to draw, they eagerly want to draw things as realistically as they can. Students often feel frustrated and disappointed when they aren’t able to draw things perfectly. One way to reduce the pressure of realistic drawing is to begin with an imperfect object. Crushing cans and spray painting them white can serve as a beautiful and cost-effective way to teach basic drawing skills.

Students can draw the cans from life or use a reference photo. If they use a reference photo, you could introduce your students to the traditional grid method or provide them with alternative ways of making a grid.

Cover the cans with white paint so students can focus on the simplified shapes without worrying about labels or text. Strong lighting can also help students to identify values easily. If you don’t have aluminum cans on hand but still want to try this activity, use these images as references .

To adapt this lesson and take it even further for your secondary students, explore new and advanced techniques to create a background with contrast and emphasis. Students research and experiment with a technique they have wanted to try. Provide them with a demonstration and sampling of some ideas to get them started.

Here are some exciting advanced techniques:

• Monoprinting
• Painted Paper Weaving FLEX Lesson (can be found in FLEX Curriculum )
• Paper marbling

Suggested materials: Paper, drawing materials, aluminum cans Suggested grade levels: Upper elementary, middle school, high school

3. Ashley Mary-Inspired Organic Shape Painting

Exploring abstract and non-objective art can be an empowering experience for students. However, sometimes the freedom to create can leave them paralyzed or push them to overwork their pieces. One way to introduce students to proper painting techniques while exploring color, pattern, and shape is to learn about the contemporary artist Ashley Mary . Mary’s playful paintings are reminiscent of the free-form collages of Matisse. Comparing Mary, a contemporary artist, with Matisse, a classical artist, can provide a foundation for inspiration and discussion. To learn more about Ashley Mary, download our complimentary FLEX Curriculum Artist Bio . Find this and many more artist bios in FLEX Curriculum .

Before students begin painting, have them choose a color scheme. Encourage students to work with a limited palette to push them to make more intentional color decisions. Students create shapes and patterns one paint layer at a time. If using watercolor, this can be a wonderful exploration of how transparent and translucent colors mix and layer. The free-form nature of this painting style also fosters intuitive thinking.

Suggested materials: Paper, acrylic or tempera paint, watercolor Suggested grade levels: Elementary, middle school

4. Water Droplet Drawing

If you are looking for a skill-building activity to boost your students’ confidence, this is it! Inspired by art teacher Jennifer Sell , this water droplet drawing activity is the perfect way to introduce students to shading and form at any age level. For best results, use a material that blends easily, like graphite, charcoal, chalk, or oil pastel. Use these videos to help guide your students as they navigate through the activity.

To adapt this for your advanced learners, students create the same drawing with two different media. Compare and contrast the process, medium characteristics, and end results.

Suggested materials: Paper, chalk, graphite, charcoal, or oil pastel Suggested grade levels: Upper elementary, middle school, high school

5. Textured Slump Mold Slab Bowl

Are you in need of a one-day clay activity that requires minimal materials? Creating slump molds is a great way to introduce or review making slabs with students. All you need is clay and a mold, like a bowl, to press the clay inside. This idea also can introduce surface texture on clay. Students roll a slab, add texture, then press into the slump mold. If you plan on doing more clay lessons with your students, this is a quick project for students to practice the glazing process.

Suggested materials: Clay, bowls for molds Suggested grade levels: Elementary, middle school

6. Op Art Drawing

Optical illusions are always exciting for students, and learning how to make them is even better! Some op art designs require more math and complexity, while others are on the simpler side. These op art sphere and cube designs are perfect as an introduction to your younger artists. Check out this video for a step-by-step guide to create them.

If you plan on doing more complex op art activities with your advanced or high school students, these simple drawings will make great bellringer prompts. Connect several spheres and cubes to create more elaborate patterns and compositions. For more op art lesson ideas, check out the Connecting Op Art and Math in FLEX Collection.

For a brief introduction to op art that you can share with your students, check out the FLEX video below:

Suggested materials: Pencil, markers, ruler, paper Suggested grade levels: Elementary, middle school, high school

7. Color Mixing Lines

The process of color mixing never ceases to amaze students, no matter how many times they have experienced it. This activity allows students to observe color mixing and explore creative drawing processes.

To start this project, students use a water-based marker or watercolor paint. If students use markers, create shapes of color right next to or slightly overlapping each other. Prep an eyedropper filled with water or a paintbrush dipped in clean water. Stand the painting up vertically and carefully drop water on the paper. Watch as the water mixes with the color and drips down the page together.

Use the same method with watercolor paint with a wet-on-wet technique by painting the paper with water first. Add color with the paper held vertically.

Once the paint drips are dry, students identify the positive and negative shapes created by the drips. Students can trace the shapes and fill in designated areas with line patterns.

Suggested materials: Water, watercolor, markers, paper Suggested grade levels: Elementary, middle school

Alexander Graham Bell said, “Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.” With all that art teachers have to do daily, we understand the importance of preparation. However, there are only so many hours in the day, and sometimes we don’t have enough time to get it all done! If you find yourself behind, overwhelmed, or stuck, try one of these activities. They are sure to engage students from start to finish, adaptable for all grade levels, and you can easily tie them into your existing curriculum when you’re in a pinch.

What’s your go-to lesson when you are in a pinch?

How do you prep in advance for a last-minute activity?

Magazine articles and podcasts are opinions of professional education contributors and do not necessarily represent the position of the Art of Education University (AOEU) or its academic offerings. Contributors use terms in the way they are most often talked about in the scope of their educational experiences.

Abby Schukei

Abby Schukei, a middle school art educator and AOEU’s Social Media Manager, is a former AOEU Writer. She focuses on creating meaningful experiences for her students through technology integration, innovation, and creativity.

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Sketchbook Ideas

Sketchbook assignment ideas.

Current HS Sketchbook Assignment Handout :  

Sb assigns-adv hs art q3 2018-19, sb assigns-adv hs art q2 2018-19a.

SB ASSIGNS-ADV HS ART Q1 2018-19

Sketchbook Ideas to Boost your Creativity FREE PDF -Sign up for my Create Art with ME Newsletter!

NEEDED Sketchbook Supplies:

Great books on building creativity:

* Affiliate links-products that I love , use, and recommend

Requirements for my HS Art Sketchbook Assignments:

You must complete a minimum of 4- 5 assignments listed below in each 9-week period.

• Drawings should fill the ENTIRE sketchbook page (points will be deducted for small drawings.)
• Include DETAILS (include textures & value, unless otherwise specified.)
• Spend a minimum of 45 minutes on each assignment.
• Each sketchbook counts as a QUIZ grade!
• Sketchbooks handed in late will be accepted but 30 points removed for lateness, 2 days late will receive a “0”.
• DRAWINGS NEEDS TO BE FROM DIRECT OBSERVATION ie: you LOOKING at the objects ! That means NOT from memory, photos, or imagination. (except where otherwise noted). Pay close attention to proportions (size relationships)

YOU MUST LABEL EACH PICTURE at the top with the appropriate title (ex: SB #1: Black & White Design )

Size                 0-5

Effort             0-10

Creativity       0-8

Title               0- 2

                     25 pts.

Sketchbook Assignments:

Below are just some of the sketchbook assignments we have done throughout the years. Not listed are the essential contour line & gesture drawings that are required throughout the year.

SB #2: Juxtaposition Drawing: Create a new object by combining 2 unrelated objects-one needs to be from nature, the other needs to be mechanical. Render with full shading. Medium: colored pencil

SB #3: Contour line: Look in your backpack or purse, pull out 5 things you use on a regular basis (phone can not be one!) arrange them in an interesting way, then draw a contour line drawing (outline only) of the composition. Medium: drawing pencils

SB #4: Scissor Metamorphosis : Use a pair of scissors as a beginning point, creatively transform the scissors into something else- a monster, a robot, a machine, a vehicle, an animal. Change its scale & it purpose. Render with full shading . Medium: colored pencils

SB #5: Student Choice: Choose your own subject and complete a drawing using skills & techniques learned in class. Medium: Your Choice

SB #6: Preposterous Cross-links: Choose any 2 words below to combine together in one image:

Turtle      Octopus      Snake        Bird       Bee          Rat    Fish      Cat

Pencil      Saw            Hammer    Pliers     Scissors  Tire    Clock   Drum

Medium: colored pencil

SB #7: Futuristic Mutation : Take an everyday object and use your imagination to redesign it with a futuristic look. Medium: colored pencils

SB #9: Shoe: Draw one of your shoes from your closet. Or a shoe that you think is very interesting (ballet, boot, etc.) ADD FULL SHADING Medium: colored pencil

SB #10: Wheels : Draw something with wheels (Real or imaginary). Medium: your choice

SB #11: 2D & 3D Arrows : Create a full page composition using a combination of 3-dimensional and 2-dimensional arrows. Use overlapping to break up the spaces into interesting positive and negative shapes. Medium: Outline with sharpie and fill the shapes with markers

SB #12: Non-objective: Create a non-objective drawing using lines, shapes (geometric) & color-use a color scheme ! Look at artwork by Wassily Kandinsky for inspiration. Medium: Markers or colored pencils

SB #13: Pet Portrait : Draw a picture of your pet or the pet you would LOVE to have. Medium: Colored Pencils

SB #15: Hand Value Study:  Draw your hand in 2 different appropriate positions (both on the same page). Render with full shading. Medium: drawing pencils

SB #16: Eye Study:   Find 4 different eyes in magazines. Cut them out & glue them to your sketchbook page. Draw the eyes underneath the picture & render with a FULL range of shading. Medium: pencils or colored pencils

SB #17: Color Scheme: Choose your own subject, create an obvious focal point and complete the drawing by coloring it in a color scheme of your choice. Label what color scheme you used next to the title. Medium: Colored Pencils, Paint, or Markers

SB #18: Realistic VS Abstract: Choose one object to draw (an interesting one! NOT simple!) Divide you sketchbook page in half with a pencil line. Label at the top of one side “Realistic” & on the other side label “Abstract.” Under the Realistic side, use a pencil to draw the object as realistically as you possibly can. On the Abstract side, distort your object so that it is still somewhat recognizable-use abstracted colors to color it. Medium: Colored Pencils

SB #19: Crushed Soda Can: Draw a crushed soda can, include details like the logo. Render with full shading. Medium: drawing pencils

SB #20: Worm’s Eye Point of View: Draw your choice of subject matter from a worm’s eye point of view. From below looking up at the subject. Add shading to indicate highlights & shadows. Medium: drawing pencil

Sketching Improves Your Skills

SB #21: Bird’s Eye Point of View: Draw your choice of subject matter from a bird’s eye point of view. From above looking down at the subject. Add shading to indicate highlights & shadows. Medium: drawing pencil

SB# 22: Paper Airplane:     Fold a paper airplane, place it in front of you & draw from direct observation as accurately as you can. ADD FULL SHADING Medium: drawing pencil

SB #23 : Creative Hand Drawing:   Trace you hand -yes I said Trace your hand on your page (tracing is usually forbidden). Use your imagination to turn you hand into something totally different. Add details-make it creative and interesting!    Medium: colored pencil

SB #24 : Cloth Drawing :    Draw the cloth that is hanging on the art room wall. ADD FULL SHADING Medium: Drawing pencil or Charcoal pencil (spray when finished)

SB #25: Interactive Drawing & Photo :  Fine a photo either of yourself or someone else (can be from a magazine). Cut the person out & brainstorm how you can create a drawing that combines the two so that they interact with each other. ADD FULL SHADING Medium: drawing pencils

SB #26: Flat to 3D- Come Alive: Look at the two examples below of a flat drawing-mostly lines/no shading that slowly transforms to become 3D with full shading. See MC Escher’s Drawing Hands for an example. Design your own drawing that morphs from flat to 3D. Medium: drawing pencils

SB #27: Visual Puns : Illustrate 2  visual puns (a visual rendering of a two-word noun phrase that illustrates the combination of the nouns with their literal meaning). Look at artist Don Stewart’s artwork  https://dsart.com/ Examples: hot dog, cat fish, hair brush, two face, fish face, bone head, Angel fish, Bat man, iron man, flower bed, Bed Bug, Boxing Match, Car pool, Card Shark, deviled Eggs, Fire Drill, Fish Tank, Football, Fruit Flies, Hammerhead, Handbag, Home Run, horse Fly, Jail Bird, Lightening Bug, Photo Bug, Strong Box, Submarine Sandwich, Swordfish, Watch Dog, Bird Brain, French Fries Medium: colored pencil

SB #28: Procreate Or Sketchbook App Drawing:  Use your iPad to create an ORIGINAL drawing of subject matter of your choice.  Medium: ipad

S B #29: Botanical Study:  Find a flower or plant from nature. Study it carefully before drawing. Draw the whole plant on 2/3rds of the page. Select 3 areas to “magnify” & draw smaller, partial up-close drawings of those 3 areas including all the details. ADD FULL SHADING Medium: watercolor, watercolor pencil, or drawing pencils

SB #31: Mixed Media Experiments: Have fun experimenting with mixed media techniques. Do the experimenting on other paper, then cut out the different experiments & glue them in your sketchbook. Label each experiment with a brief description of how you created it. Try at least 6 of these different experiments. Use up a minimum of 2 pages in your sketchbook. Medium:  various art supplies

SB #32: Collaged Music Sheet Drawing:  Glue a music sheet onto a page in your sketchbook-Let it dry completely (do at least one day in advance). Choose an image or two to draw with India ink & draw it directly onto the music sheet. Add color with watercolors or colored pencils. Medium: collage, ink, watercolors or colored pencils

Sketching Challenges Your Design Concepts

SB# 34: Line Inventory:   Draw two rows of four squares; one row of four vertical rectangles; and one row of four circles. When you have drawn your blank template, place four different kinds of lines in the first row of squares. Refer to the example below, but do not copy — come up with your own kinds of lines. Then, invent a series of variations on each line in the remaining columns. Medium: ink or sharpie

SB #35: Tool Metamorphosis: See Idea from Stan Winston School Choose a tool (hammer, ax, wrench, pliers, drill) as a beginning point, creatively transform the head of the tool into something else – a monster, a robot, a machine, a vehicle, and instruments, an animal, etc. Change its scale & it purpose. Render with full shading . Medium: colored pencils

SB #36 Balance Sketchbook Assignment: Draw 3 squares or circles. Use shape templates & rulers to create non-objective design examples of each type of balance (symmetrical, asymmetrical, & radial). See Types of Balance Lesson. Use Shape templates to create designs that illustrate each type of balance. Fit ALL designs on one page. Label & color them with colored pencils or markers.  Medium: colored pencils or markers

SB #37 Adult Portrait: Find a frontal view of an adult male or female. Cut it out or print it out. Open your sketchbook so it is showing 2 pages (a spread), glue onto the left side your sketchbook. On the right side use what we learned about adult human facial proportions to draw the portrait from the picture. Use light shading to indicate major values (highlights & shadows) or to lightly shade the nose. Medium: drawing pencils

SB #38 Refraction Drawing: Refraction is the visual distortion that happens when an object is viewed through a glass container filled with water (or some liquid). Find an interesting glass container (drinking glass, vase, jar, etc) and place a spoon or fork inside. Fill the container only half-way with water and place it on a light colored surface.  Carefully observe the distortion. Use observational drawing skills to draw the glass, spoon, water & any lights/ shadows you see on the table surface. Medium: drawing pencils

SB #39 Illuminated Letter :   Choose a letter to draw. Go on a computer & play with the letter in different fonts- choose one & print it out. Look up examples of illuminated letters for inspiration. Draw the letter large in your sketchbook in pencil. Add decoration to the letter, possibly even a border Medium: colored pencils, sharpies & markers

Sketching is an integral part of the creative process

SB #40 Fantasy Landscape: Use your imagination to draw a fantasy landscape. It can be anytime period on earth, in space or some other world. What type of plants, flowers, and trees would you see? What does the typography look like? can you see other worlds from the planet you are on? Are there buildings? What is gravity like in the land you are drawing? Medium: colored pencils

SB #42 Color Mood- Know about colors and their effect. Certain colors inspire certain emotions; learn to use them! Choose a color to explore, compose a realistic, abstract or non-objective drawing based on the emotion produced by a single color. Use the tints and shades of a color to add different values to the drawing.  Medium: colored pencils, watercolor pencils, or markers

• Black – authority, discipline, strength and promoting independence.
• Blue – cool, calming, relaxing, and promotes feelings of tranquility and peace.
• Green – balance, refreshing, normalizing, and promotes emotional growth.
• Orange – cheerful, commanding, and stimulates goodwill, conversation and appetites.
• Pink – calming, accepting, and encourages affection and socialization.
• Purple – comforting, spiritual, and generates mystery and a good sense of intuition.
• Red – empowerment, stimulation, drama, competition and passion.
• White – purification, energy, unity, and gives vigor to other colors it is used in combination with.
• Yellow – cheerful, expanding, and increases energy.

SB #43 Cast Shadows: Choose an object that has a lot of broken negative space (like a bike wheel). Using either natural light (Sun) or a lamp, position the light on the object so it creates a long and interesting cast shadow ( see bike example ). Compose a drawing that shows only a portion of the object & MOSTLY the cast shadow . Add value to the SHADOW, the rest can be contour line only. Medium: drawing pencils

How to Draw Steampunk Books:

SB #45 Broken Object Drawing : **ASK parents for an object that is not valuable. Break the object a little and then draw it showing all the broken fragments, tears, and loose debris. ***If you break something glass or metal, please wear protective gear (gloves and goggles) See Example by Armin Mersmann Medium: drawing pencils or colored pencils

SB #46 Travel Drawing : Draw a place you want to visit. Find a reference picture and create your drawing from that. Idea is from Art is Medicine Medium: colored pencils, drawing pencils, or watercolor pencils

SB #48 Merging Animals:  Combine 2 real animals to become a fantasy creature. Use characteristics of both and colors of both in the new design Medium: colored pencils

SB #49 Animal Eyes: Choose an eye to draw from these 4 types of creatures: Animal (land or sea), Bird, Reptile, and Insect. Draw 2 per page so they take up approximately ½ the page. Render with full shading.  Medium: colored pencils or Pen & Watercolor

Sketching brings new ideas & techniques to the surface

SB #50 Small to LARGE Enlargement Drawing : Choose 1-2 small objects to draw (less than 2”). Draw 3 preliminary sketches focusing on an interesting composition that enlarges the object (s) so much that it goes off the page on at least 3 sides of the paper. Medium: drawing pencils

SB #51 Magnification Drawing: Using a magnifying glass, look at an object or insect very closely. Draw the details of what you see. See The Helpful Art Teacher: Drawing Magnified Leaves Medium: colored pencils

SB #52 Sculpted Paper Strips Drawing : Credit- A Faithful Attempt-Curled Paper Drawings Give each student 2 strips of paper (½x11” & 1×11). Have students twist/bend/manipulate them into some type of curl or even add zig-zags. Tape them onto a sheet of paper so they are spread apart. Draw lightly with a HB pencil until they get the proportion just right. Use Drawing pencils 4B to add shading. Medium: Drawing Pencils

SB #55 New & Old: Find 2 objects to draw something new and something old or vintage. It would be most interesting to find an old and new example of one type of object (like phones, computers, mixers, anything that can show the progression of technology) Place them side by side or slightly overlapping each other and then draw them with full shading . Do research on the internet if needed Medium : drawing pencils

SB #56 Grid Journal: Read MilliAnde’s What is Grid Journaling  article, watch her video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmlEY5TK1zo , and view her examples. Choose a piece of architecture to explore (best to be physically present, but if you cannot then find several reference pictures to work from). In NONE of the grids will you draw the whole structure, you will focus on smaller sections.  Following her instructions draw your first box and one detail from the architecture. Next choose another detail to draw, make sure to draw the box to fit the detail. All the boxes should be different sizes. Continue to draw until you have between 7-10 boxes on one page.  Medium : Pen & Ink

Sketching Develops Communication Skills

SB #58: Skeleton of Animal Study: Choose an animal (living or extinct) to draw its skeletal structure. First, draw a contour line -outline ONLY- of the animal (FULL body). Second, draw the skeletal structure inside the outline. Third, use a sharpie to fill in the negative space behind the skeleton. Medium: Drawing pencil & Sharpie

 SB #61: Realistic & Geometric: Choose an animal to draw a head portrait of. Draw a line down the center of the face vertically. On the left hand side draw the animal realistically with color and shading and go over major lines with sharpie. On the right hand side draw the animal as if it were make up of simple triangles, circles and squares (simple geometric shapes) that follow the major contours and textures of the animal. Go over major lines with sharpie and add shading. See examples here &  here .    Medium: Sharpies and Colored Pencils

SB #62 See a Need Fill a Need:  Think of a common problem that humans or animals struggle with. Design a solution to fixing that problem. Write down what the problem is and write out your intentions to fix the problem. Draw the new solution with full coloring. Add descriptions of gadgets to help us understand your ideas. See Invention Idea List below to kick-start your thinking.  Medium: Colored Pencils and Ultra-thin Sharpie

Invention Idea List

• New utensil or tool
• Help someone break a bad habit
• A new way to prevent ___________
• Something to help children who have a certain disability
• Make something safer
• Help find or keep track of _____________
• A better way to ____________
• Recycle ____________ to make or do ____________

 SB #63: Texture Spheres: Draw 6 spheres (2-3″). Apply 6 different textures to the different spheres: fur, fish or dragon scales, craters, basket weaving, spikes, lumpy, bricks or stones .  Make sure your textures follow the contour of the sphere! Watch Video: Pen & Ink Drawing Tutorials | How to create realistic textures (Part 3) Medium: P en and Ink or sharpies 

SB #64: Unique Door Handles:  Find a reference photo of a unique door handle. Draw the door handle large on your page including part of the door in pencil, then use watercolor pencils to paint it. Add DETAILS and shading!  Medium: Watercolor Pencils

SB #65: Story Dice Cubes Drawing: Use Rory’s Story Cubes to roll 3-4 images. Develop a story or scene with these images and illustrate it in your sketchbook. Medium: Colored Pencils and Ultra-thin Sharpie

SB #69 Personification Drawing: According to Dictionary.com Personification is “the attribution of a human characteristics to something nonhuman, or the representation of an abstract quality in human form.” Choose a man-made object to draw (stapler, hair dryer, etc) then draw the object, but personify it by giving it a face and other human characteristics. Medium: Sharpie and Colored Pencils

SB #70 Splatter Creature: Splatter some liquid watercolor on your page, blow it around with a straw. Let it dry. Now turn it into a creative creature (obviously fantasy). ADD LOTS OF DETAILS! Medium: Liquid Watercolors, Sharpie and markers

SB #71 Word Illustration: Choose a word (like Autumn, Flower, Candy, Science, etc) and create a FONT in which the letters are illustrations of the word you chose. See https://www.edinaschools.org/Page/4373 for examples of Mr.Henricksen’s 6th grade Word Art Project. EACH letter should be a different illustration of the word (ex: autumn: A-shape of candy corn, u-basket of apples, t-scarecrow, etc.) Medium: Sharpie and Colored Pencils

Sketching Builds Hand-eye Coordination and Develops Fine Motor Skills 

SB #72 Ball Point Pen Drawing: Choose a subject to draw. Render it with shading using only a ballpoint pen. Medium: Black or blue ballpoint pen

SB #73 Board Game Observational Drawing: Set up a board game with some of the game pieces on it. Choose a small section of the board to draw from. Render with shading. See Full Project from Nicole Brisco https://www.incredibleart.org/files/Nicole.htm#Mixed Medium: Drawing Pencils

SB #74 Organic Design Building: Design a building derived from an organic form (form found in nature). Draw the basic organic form and alter it into a building. Add details to the building that are influenced by the shapes, colors and textures of the organic form. See Example at https://www.studentartguide.com/lessons/art-lessons-for-substitute-teachers Medium: Colored Pencils

SB #75 Board Game Observational Drawing: Set up a board game with some of the game pieces on it. Choose a small section of the board to compose your drawing. Render with shading. Medium: Drawing Pencils

SB #76 Design Your Dream Swimming Pool: Design your dream swimming pool. What kinds of special features will it have-slides, bridges, pirate ships, fountains, etc. You can either draw from a bird’s eye view (directly above) or from a frontal view. Medium: Colored Pencils

SB #77  Candy Drawing:  Choose 3 different pieces of candy  (lollipop, ring-pop, gummy bear, peppermint, tootsie roll, candy cane, etc.). Arrange them so the partially overlap each other in an interesting way. Keep the candy in its wrapper (except for lollipops & ring pops). Take a picture of your composition from the viewpoint where you will be drawing from (so you can finish it later if needed). Draw in pencil as accurately as you can while looking at the candy directly. ( Look twice, Draw once ). Once drawn, render with shading in colored pencils. Medium: Drawing & Colored Pencils

SB #78  Thankful :  Think of something or someone you are thankful for. Draw it or them with SHADING! Medium: Drawing Pencils

SB #80 8 Ways of Seeing Part 1: (This assignment will be finished in 2 Parts) Website: https://medium.com/@katerutter/sketch-things-better-with-the-7-ways-of-seeing-6f9a24e5b9dd (my class’s assignment was slightly altered from the article)

Use a full spread (2 facing pages) & divide your sketchbook page into 8 sections- 4 on each page. Choose 1 object to draw & find a reference picture of it (Save to Photos). At the top of each section, write these titles: Symbolic, Gesture, Blind Contour, Simple Shapes, Contrast, Negative Space, Guided Contour, and Cartoon. Medium: 2B Pencil

1: Symbolic: Without looking at the object, draw a simple version of it. Sketch the “idea” of the object, not the specific thing. (think of logo symbols and how simple they are) 2: Gesture: Look at the object and make a very quick sketch of it, using only a few lines. Try to capture the “energy” and “rhythm” of the subject. Work super-fast! 3: Blind Contour: Without looking at your pen or your paper, use your eyes to “trace” the edges of the object, while, at the same time, using your pen to draw the outline in a steady, continuous line. Don’t look at your paper, and don’t pick up your pen! Go slow. 4: Simple Shapes: Stare at the object and break it down into basic shapes in your head. Aim for 3–4 shapes…no more than 6! Draw the shapes on your paper.

8 Ways of Seeing Part 2:  Using the same object from SB#5, create these drawings: 5: Contrast: Stare at the object and identify the shadows and darkest parts. Draw ONLY the darkest parts. Don’t draw outlines or lines unless they are the darkest parts. 6: Negative Space: Draw the space AROUND the object. Try to get as much detail in the shape as possible. When you’re done, draw a box around the shape and quickly fill it in. 7: Guided Contour: Look intently at the object and use your eyes to “trace” the edges of the object, while simultaneously using your pen to draw the outlines and shapes. Glance back and forth between the object and your paper. Try to get as much accurate detail as possible while still working at a quick pace. 8: Cartoon: Turn the object into a cartoon. Use abstraction methods: simplify edges, twist, stretch, pull, distort color, resize, exaggerate.

SB #81 Anthropomorphic: Anthropomorphic , derived from the Greek word anthrōposi , which means “human being”. It means suggesting human characteristics for animals or inanimate things. Toys can move, think and can talk; candlesticks and teapots can sing and dance. Choose an object or animal to transform anthropomorphically. Medium: Colored Pencil

HOW to Draw Anthropomorphic Animals and Objects:

• Make them bipedal (walking on two legs)
• Give them clothing and human accessories (make-up, glasses, hats, etc)
• Create animated facial expressions
• Change their proportions to more human-like body proportions
• Show them holding objects and otherwise change their physical abilities to include human abilities
• Show them doing human tasks (painting, driving a car, etc)

This Website has good ideas of how to create anthropomorphic characters: https://design.tutsplus.com/articles/how-to-draw-furries-aka-anthropomorphic-characters–cms-30243

SB #82 Texture Rubbings: Explore physical texture through texture rubbings. Divide your sketchbook page into 10 boxes. Find 10 actual textures from your surroundings. Create rubbings from the textures in your sketchbook by placing the object under your page and rubbing a crayon (on its side) over the object. Label the box with the object. Medium: Crayons & Watercolors

SB #83 16 Circle Challenge: (Modified 30 Circle Challenge ) Use a circle template to draw 16 circles on your page in pencil. Turn each of the circles into unique recognizable objects. You can draw inside and outside the circles. Medium: Drawing Pencils

Additional Sketchbook Resource s:

Student Art Guide: Tips for Producing an Amazing GCSE or A Level Art Sketchbook

Deep Space Sparkle- The Sketchbook Project (k-5th grades)

Other HS Art Project Ideas

• Beyond the Border Pen & Watercolor HS Project
• Mixed Media Drawing Collage
• Motorcycle Mixed-Media Art Lesson High School
• Ceramics Roll-A-Beast Animal Sculptures

Have you done any unique sketchbook assignments with your students? If so, I would love to hear about them! //

PLEASE Share this Post:

Just found your blog while doing some research on sketchbook assignments. This is a life saver! I am going to assign 10 for now to see how it goes with my students. Thank you for sharing!

Great Cynthia! These are good assignments for developing creativity & imagination. I have used all of these in my classroom & seen success with them! Let me know if you have any suggestions. Michelle

This is amazing! I always struggle with inspiring myself on what to draw, and this is perfect! Something new for every day 🙂

Thank you for the ideas! I am just starting out and find these very helpful. Are these assignments done at home or in class? What type of sketch books do you require? Spiral, bound, hand made?

Hi! These assignments are homework-outside of class (unless they finish a project, then they can work on the sketchbook assignment). I require a 70+ page spiral bound sketchbook (I like the single loop & if it has a folder that’s awesome!). I also prefer a heavier weight (80-90#). I will add a link to the top of this page with what I prefer.

Blessings on your school year!!

These are some great ideas for use as home work, thank you!

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Art Projects for Kids

Stop searching. get no-prep, step-by-step elementary art lessons delivered daily (it’s free).

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Stop the Sunday Search

For teachers who are tired of having their Sundays swallowed up by lesson planning, Art Projects for Kids has a free daily email that serves up easy-to-use art projects your students will love — without ever opening Pinterest.  

Quality lessons ready to use!

I love the step-by-step directions, meaningful and easy to do, fun, meaningful art activities with 90% less planning time, see all >.

The only options most teachers have for how to find art lessons is by spending hours weeding through the millions of ideas that come up on Google and Pinterest. Or to scour Teachers Pay Teachers for expensive supplements to your local curriculum. Or to try to force-fit the overwhelming school art program that requires all kinds of fancy materials (all in your “free” time, right?).

But even after giving up most of Sunday afternoon searching for ideas, all you turn up is one or two puny lesson plans with instructions that are about as easy to follow as IRS Form 13909. You need a faster way to find fun art projects with user-friendly directions that will engage your kids. But… how? Enter: Art Projects for Kids.

How to Draw Cinderella: Easy Step-by-Step Art Lesson for Kids

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Prep Your Art Lesson Plans, Effortlessly

The Art Projects for Kids step-by-step method of elementary art instruction breaks the often anxiety-inducing subject of art down into a simple, fun process (for students AND teachers) that boosts your students’ confidence and allows them to create with joy.

Each of your kids can set their own pace to create artwork they can be proud of. And you can feel empowered to instill your kids with the delight of creativity (even if you tend to be a left-brained, “in the box” thinker yourself). 

But after 20 years in the classroom as an art teacher, I also know what it’s like to give up every Sunday afternoon (and most evenings) to plan the week’s lessons. You shouldn’t have to give up all your free time to bring your students meaningful art instruction. That’s why at Art Projects for Kids , you’ll find a variety of easy, step-by-step lessons your kids will love all in one place . The result is an instant extra 90 minutes minutes back in your weekend — just by signing up for our emails (and it’s free!).

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How to Draw a Paul Klee Castle: Easy Step-by-Step Art Tutorial Video for Kids

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How to Draw like Hundertwasser: Easy Step-by-Step Art Lesson

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Abstract Self Portrait Drawing for Kids

Nate Williams Self Portrait Art Lesson for Elementary Students

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My Goals Self Portrait Template: Back to School Goal Setting Project for Elementary

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Relax, Knowing No-Prep Art Lessons Are en Route to Your Inbox

No more feeling guilty for not having the bandwidth to thoughtfully integrate more art projects into your lessons. No more cringing at not coming up with more “creative” ideas and projects to put on your bulletin boards. No more doubting your ability to teach art. No more feeling helpless when your kids are too afraid to create.

Instead, enjoy a classroom brimming with perseverance and playfulness . Wake up looking forward to walking into your classroom armed with your easy lesson plans and even videos you can play for your class. Smile as you watch your creative kids discover that, yes, they CAN have fun doing art. Feel truly prepared (maybe for the first time ever) . Treat yourself to a relaxing Sunday with your feet up. Maybe even reading a book that didn’t come out of the kids section of the library. And know that your (free) email membership to Art Projects for Kids is powering all of this, like your magical teaching fairy godmother. And even when you rest? It won’t. 

Really boosts their drawing confidence!

Nice art work that is kid friendly, find literally any picture your students want to draw, all in one place, view project ideas by grade level.

You Don’t Need as Much Time as You Think to Integrate Art into Your Classroom

You won’t have to spend all day searching Pinterest for ideas. You won’t have to spend hours prepping or studying the art lessons. You won’t need to beg your administration or parents for high-end supplies or purchase expensive curriculum.

All you have to do is say “yes” to the Art Projects for Kids daily email and watch as the 3,152 minutes you’re losing each year to searching for art activities slowly come dripping back into your life. Because what busy teacher doesn’t want another 3,152 minutes per year without doing anything differently at all? Get the Art Projects for Kids daily email, and let us do the heavy lifting for you.

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Drawing Assignments for High School Students

These drawing assignments for high school students are perfect for helping your students learn how to draw at a higher level.

Drawing Assignments to Help Your Students Draw People Better

So your students want to draw people that look “real”, but they never come out quite right.

Most often this is because students focus on drawing details like eyelashes or strands of hair.

For successful figure drawings, however, students need to draw the most important concepts first: proportion and gesture.

Teaching your students how to draw people with correct proportions is a game-changer for getting their figures to look “real”.

Gesture is equally important, because without it drawings of people look like wooden statues.

This free drawing assignment lesson plan shows your students how to get consistently good proportions and figure gestures in their drawings.

Want to start atelier training? Join our Ateliyay! Painting Bootcamp today!

Drawing Assignments that Teach Your Students About Edges

Edges are the often-neglected but oh-so-important workhorse of drawing. Understanding and applying good edgework in drawings takes students to the next level.

Often, we art teachers spend a lot of time teaching drawing assignments about values – how light and dark to shade things in a drawing.

But JUST AS IMPORTANT is what happens when one value meets another value.

Does the light value meet the dark value abruptly? Or is it a soft transition?

Edgework is actually quite a simple drawing skill to teach, and this free edges drawing assignment will help your students learn how to master the concept.

Drawing Assignments that Teach Texture

Texture is a skill that is always impressive when seen, but often a confusing concept for students.

“Shiny” is perhaps the most impressive texture of all to see in a drawing, and is actually one of the easiest textures to achieve in a short drawing assignment.

In this free drawing lesson, students will discover how to manipulate values to create a drawing of a shiny object.

Looking for more great drawing ideas? Check out these blog posts:

Drawing Worksheets

Portrait Drawing Secrets

Name Your Shapes When Drawing

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Line Drawing: A Guide for Art Students

Last Updated on September 1, 2023

When we first picked up a pen or pencil and started making marks on paper, we began with line. Whether self-taught, through trial and error, or guided by others, we learned how line defines form, creates structure, divides a frame, traces contour, creates tonal variation (cross-hatching, for example) and leads the eye from one part of a work to another. Initially a mechanism for getting outlines onto paper – identifying edges – we begin to applaud lines for their own merit: celebrate their presence…whether a quiet flick of charcoal on paper or a streak of graphite.

This article contains exercises for Art students who wish to produce contour line drawings, cross contour drawings, blind drawings and other types of line drawings. It is a teaching aid for high school Art students and includes classroom activities, a free downloadable PDF worksheet and inspirational artist drawings.

Blind Contour Drawing

Definition : A blind contour drawing contains lines that are drawn without ever looking at the piece of paper. This forces you to study a scene closely, observing every shape and edge with your eyes, as your hand mimics these on paper. The aim is not to produce a realistic artwork, but rather to strengthen the connection between eyes, hand and brain: a reminder that, when drawing, you must first learn to see.

Blind Drawing Exercises : Blind drawing is an excellent way to start a high school Fine Art programme. Drawing wobbly lines that bear little resemblance to the chosen object is relaxing and stress-free. Often, a classroom bubbles with laughter at the unexpected results. Blind drawing stretches the arms and soul; eases you into observational drawing without fear.

READ NEXT: How to make an artist website (and why you need one)

Gesture Drawing / Timed Drawing / Movement Drawing

Definition : A gesture drawing is completed quickly – often in short timed durations, such as 20, 30, 60 or 90 seconds – using fast, expressive lines. Gesture drawings capture basic forms and proportions – the emotion and essence of a subject – without focusing on detail. Due to their rapid completion, they are a great way to record movement and action, as well as increase your drawing speed, confidence and intuitive mark-making skill. Gesture drawings are best completed with smooth, easily applied mediums (chunky graphite pencils, charcoal sticks, pastels, soft brushes dipped in Indian ink, for example), without the use of an eraser. They are often completed on large, inexpensive sheets of paper, where you can move your arm fluidly, be bold with mark-making, and not worry about mistakes. As with blind drawings, gesture drawing is an ideal warm-up activity.

Gesture Drawing Exercises : When you begin investigating your subject matter in the initial phase of a high school Art programme, it can be helpful to make several first-hand gestural drawings. The best of these can be selected for your final portfolio (taking advantage of a photocopier or digital camera to reduce in size, if necessary). A small still life scene can be depicted just as easily as a large moving form.

A gesture drawing by Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn :

A gestural figure drawing by Chelsea Stebar :

Continuous Line Drawing

Definition : A continuous line drawing is produced without ever lifting the drawing instrument from the page. This means that, in addition to outlines and internal shapes, the pencil must move back and forth across the surface of the paper, with lines doubling back on each other, so that the drawing is one free-flowing, unbroken line. To avoid the temptation to erase lines, it can be helpful to complete a continuous line drawing with an ink pen, varying the line weight, as needed, to indicate perspective and areas of light and shadow. Like the drawing methods described above, this drawing method develops confidence and drawing speed, and encourages your eyes and hand and brain to work together. Continuous line drawings work best with in-depth observation of your subject, without interference from your thinking mind. According to Smithsonian Studio Arts :

…continuous line drawing is actually a very powerful way to create a piece that is both hard edged and fluid, representational and abstract, rational and emotional all in one.

Continuous Line Drawing Exercises : This drawing method is great for sketchbooks and drawing from life. It can be an excellent starter activity, with drawings completed on large, inexpensive paper that can be scanned / edited / cropped and used in other ways within your projects.

An A Level Art sketchbook page by  Lucy Feng  from Hereford Sixth Form College, Herefordshire, UK:

Contour drawing

Definition: A contour drawing shows the outlines, shapes and edges of a scene, but omits fine detail, surface texture, colour and tone (‘contour’ is French for ‘outline’). According to Wikipedia :

The purpose of contour drawing is to emphasize the mass and volume of the subject rather than the detail; the focus is on the outlined shape of the subject and not the minor details.

The illusion of three-dimensional form, space and distance can be conveyed in a contour drawing through the use of varied line-weight (darker lines in the foreground / paler lines in the distance) and perspective.

Contour Drawing Exercises : Using line alone eliminates the challenge of applying tone, colour and mediums; and instead focuses attention solely upon shape and proportion. After completing warm-up activities such as blind and gesture drawings, slower, more formal contour drawings can be an excellent way to begin more realistic representations of your subject matter. Used intermittently throughout projects, contour drawings can also be helpful for the student who needs to work faster .

A contour drawing by  Ultima Thule :

Cross contour drawing

Definition : A cross contour drawing contains parallel lines that run across the surface of an object (or radiate from a central point), such as those that appear on a topographical map or a digital wireframe. The lines can run at any appropriate angle (sometimes at multiple angles) and may continue across objects and into the background. Cross contour drawings typically follow the rules of perspective, with lines drawn closer together in the distance and further apart in the foreground. In this type of drawing, the illusion of three-dimensional volume is created entirely with line.

Cross Contour Drawing Exercises : This is an excellent way to gain familiarity with the volumes and three-dimensional forms in your project, producing analytical cross contour drawings that are suitable for sketchbooks or early preparatory sheets.

Cross contour drawing of a shell by Matt Louscher :

Cross contour hand drawings by (from left) Mathew Young, Ryan Acks and Lea Dallaglio while studying at the  San Jose State University , Department of Art and Art History:

Cross contour drawings by Daniel Servin (left) and Alfred Manzano, completed while studying AP Studio Art at Mt Eden High School in Hayward, California, USA:

A wireframe contour drawing exercise by Year 9 student Seonmin Lee from ACG Parnell College , Auckland, New Zealand:

Planar analysis drawing

Definition : A planar analysis drawing simplifies complex curved surfaces into flat planes, using straight lines. This process helps students to think about the underlying structure of objects and results in an analytical drawing, that is rather mechanical in appearance.

Planar Analysis Drawing Activity : This can be a great introductory drawing exercise, especially if you are moving towards Cubism or abstracting scenes into geometric form.

A planar analysis portrait completed by a student of Cat Normoyle :

Wire sculpture drawings

Definition : Wire can be cut and bent into shapes with pliers to create three-dimensional ‘drawings’, often resulting in a work filled with flowing, curved lines. These wire sculptures can be attached to a two-dimensional frame or a flat surface, hung in the air, or be left free-standing, changing in appearance as a viewer moves around the room. Due to their flexible nature, wire sculptures often move slightly in the wind, adding an extra interactive element to the work.

Wire Sculpture Line Drawing Exercise : This is an excellent activity for middle school students and for high school students, if it relates specifically to your project (and does not interfere with postage requirements, for those who need to post work away for assessment). Small wire experiments, using light-weight wire, can also be mounted to sketchbook pages.

Wire sculptures completed by the students of Amy Bonner Oliveri from Allendale Columbia School, Rochester, New York, USA:

Hatching, cross hatching, and other line techniques

As well as representing contours, line can also be used to apply tone (light and shadow) to a drawing. This can be done by altering the:

• Gap between the lines
• Lightness / darkness of the line
• Thickness of the line

There are many line techniques can be used to create tone, as illustrated in the worksheet below. Common techniques include:

• Small dashes
• Hatching (long, parallel lines on an angle)
• Cross-hatching (parallel lines at right angles)
• Stippling (dots)
• Small crosses
• Small circles

The angle that these techniques are applied may remain constant within a drawing, or it may change in response to the angle and direction of the forms. For example, cross-hatching may flow around the surface of an object in a similar direction as cross contour lines. These techniques are also a great way to create the illusion of texture (see our article about observational drawings ).

Line Techniques Worksheet : The worksheet below has been provided by the Student Art Guide for classroom use only and may be issued freely to students (credited to studentartguide.com), as well as shared via the social media buttons at the bottom of this page. It may not be published online or shared or distributed in any other way, as per our terms and conditions . The full size printable worksheet is available by clicking the PDF link below. This worksheet is suitable for middle school students, or senior students who have not had prior experience with line techniques.

Click here to open the full size worksheet as a printable PDF .

An Indian Ink still life drawing by Kirana Intraroon, completed while in Year 10 at ACG Strathallan College , Auckland, New Zealand:  

An A* GCSE Art sketchbook page by Samantha Li :

A final GCSE Art piece by Hannah Armstrong :  

Artist line drawings

Here is a collection of line drawings from famous and less well known artists, to inspire high school Art students and teachers. This section is continually updated. Enjoy!

Pablo Picasso :

Andy Warhol :

David Hockney :

Vincent van Gogh :

Leonardo da Vinci :

Aaron Earley :

Peter Root :

Maurizio Anzeri

Karolina Cummings :

Daniel Mathers

Roz McQuillan :

Wang Tzu-Ting :

Nina Smart :

Andy Mercer :

Vital Photography :

Matthew Dunn :

Rod McLaren :

Andreas Fischer :

Nicholas Weltyk :

Liliana Porter :

Hong Chun Zhang :

Bruce Pollock :

David Eskenazi

Matt Niebuhr :

Albrecht Durer :

Victoria Haven :

Carne Griffiths :

William Anastasi :

Charles Avery

Did you enjoy this article? You may wish to read 11 Tips for Producing an Excellent Observational Drawing .

Amiria has been an Art & Design teacher and a Curriculum Co-ordinator for seven years, responsible for the course design and assessment of student work in two high-achieving Auckland schools. She has a Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Bachelor of Architecture (First Class Honours) and a Graduate Diploma of Teaching. Amiria is a CIE Accredited Art & Design Coursework Assessor.

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Exciting Techniques and Processes

Experimenting with different media is an essential part of a broad art curriculum.  Many of my resources explore exciting media; the three featured below have been very popular.

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These complete units of work are each an entire project. It’s wonderful to be able to teach new projects and to not have to spend hours and hours planning. There are many more complete art units on The Arty Teacher.

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I never know what resources are going to be popular.  The selection below all have received great reviews!

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Art lesson plans for teaching portraits.

Most art teachers teach portrait lessons at some point in the year.  Students really seem to love this topic even though it’s really difficult.  Below are three best selling portrait resources.  Click an image to learn more, or click here to see all  art lesson plans about portraits.

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Color theory is easy to teach with these resources to help you.  Every resource has the different spelling of ‘color’ and ‘colour’ to keep art teachers around the globe happy!  As well as the best selling resources below, there are more  color theory art resources  on The Arty Teacher.  This includes resources that help teach about harmonious, analogous and complementary colours.

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22 Ideas on What to Draw for Art Class

Taking an art class but not sure what to draw? Here we list some drawing inspirations plus tips for choosing a subject. Never run out of ideas again!

Drawing is one fantastic way to express your emotions, tell stories, or simply make people happy. And what’s beautiful about art is the endless range of possibilities of what you can create. No two pieces are ever exactly the same. And above all, making art is just plain fun!

If you’re feeling stuck and don’t know what to draw for art class , read on and get some tips on how to choose a good subject for drawing, plus a list of things you can draw, to grease the wheels and get you inspired.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fitzroy Painting (@fitzroypainting)

Ideas on What to Draw for Art Class

Not sure what to draw for art class? When it comes to drawing there are many choices, from still life images to portraits. If you’re struggling to come up with some ideas, look no further than this list! Even better, why not try drawing one of each?

1. Draw simple shapes.

If you’re new to drawing, you can practise by sketching basic forms like circles, squares, and triangles, or experimenting with different lines and textures. As you get more comfortable with your drawing skills, you can move on to creating more complex shapes and images. No matter how good or bad you think your drawings are, they all start off as scribbles and sketches that gradually transform into masterpieces over time. Just keep practising!

2. Draw abstract designs and patterns.

Building up from the first exercise, try putting shapes together into an abstract piece. What you’ll love about abstract drawing is that there are virtually no rules! Just let your imagination run wild and create something unique.

Perhaps, you can start with a small circle and then add more circles around it to make a pattern. You can choose any color or size of your liking. Drawing a circle is the first step towards creating a pattern or design that you can use for anything from art to clothes.

Straight lines are easier than curved ones because they don’t require much practice or skill; anyone can draw geometric shapes like triangles, squares, and rectangles. They’re commonly used for borders around pictures or spaces where you want something simple but professional looking.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Studio Inqu (@studioinqu)

Drawing objects around the house

3. flowers in a vase.

The best way to tackle any kind of drawing is by breaking it down into smaller portions that are easier to handle. Rather than trying to do everything at once, focus on one aspect of the subject at a time and work your way through all the components until you’ve got something that looks right.

Start with an image of a flower. If it makes you feel more comfortable, you can use a ruler to draw straight lines as guidelines for how big the petals should be, how far apart they should be from each other, and so on. Next, draw a circle around each petal line with your pencil so that you know where to start coloring in each petal with your crayons or colored pencils. Finally, colour each petal with a different colored pencil until all are filled in completely.

4. A bowl of fruit

Using a photo or an actual model, draw a simple outline of your bowl and fruits. Then fill in the details, like leaves or stems. This can be done with a light touch with your pencil or you can use a darker shading tool if you have one available. Next, add texture to your drawing by using shading or crosshatching – this is a technique where lines are drawn over each other at different angles creating small dots that blend together into one solid shade of colour.

Add color by filling in areas with solid blocks of color or by applying watercolor washes over the pencil marks you already made. Experiment with different colors until you find one that works best for your piece. You can also add some highlights to your fruit, like a white highlight on top of each grape or cherry that gives it some shine and dimensionality.

5. A cup of coffee or tea

A cup or mug is a simple object. Because it is such a recognisable item, it has a lot of details that can be drawn from memory by beginners and more advanced artists alike. Of course, you can use a real cup if you want to get the proportions right. What’s great about this subject either way is it will help you get used to drawing three-dimensional forms in perspective.

Start by sketching out the basic shape of the cup or mug and then do some shading, using crosshatching like you did with the bowl of fruit. This will create shadows and highlights on the object’s surface. Use different types of lines depending on whether they’re facing up or down in relation to the light source (vertical lines are usually darker than horizontal ones).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Artea Art School & Party Venue (@artea.art.school)

6. A glass of iced tea on a hot day

Like with mugs and cups, this is another excellent example of how easy it is to start with basic shapes like circles and triangles when learning how to draw objects – in this case, your ordinary drinking glasses.

First, draw the rim of the glass and then fill in the rest with colored pencils or crayons to make the glass look frosted over. This will give your drawing depth, and you can practise different skills like shading (adding shadows), perspective (making objects appear smaller when viewed from afar), foreshortening (making objects appear bigger than they actually are), and so on. Make it interesting by drawing different types of ice cubes floating, some lemon slices or mint leaves for extra flavor (and color)!

7. Draw anything that is right in front of you

Take some time to look around the room where you’re sitting right now and see if there’s anything there that makes you curious enough to want to draw it. Maybe there’s something in the room that makes you think of something else – like a lampshade that reminds you of afternoons in your grandmother’s old parlour. Or maybe there’s something on the wall that catches your eye, like a photo frame or an artwork hanging above your desk.

Whatever it is, as long as you find it interesting enough to draw, just pick up your pencil and sketch it out, using the techniques you’ve already learned on the previous still life exercises. In fact, by now, you will have already trained your eye to look at everything as a potential drawing subject. And that’s how all great art starts!

Drawing the human figure

8. self portrait.

Drawing a self-portrait is easy enough, if you’re not trying to draw yourself with perfect proportions. Start by lightly sketching the outline of your face with a pencil, making sure not to get too detailed yet. Decide which direction your head should go (upward or downward), as well as how far away it should be from the viewer (which will affect proportions). Draw lightly so that you can erase unnecessary lines later without messing up your sketch too much.

Next, draw loose lines around the eyes, nose and mouth as guides for placement. Use them as a guide when shading in those areas so that everything is perfectly aligned with your original drawing. Then, add more details such as hair or clothing by lightly shading those areas with pencil or colored pencils.

If you want to make it more challenging, try drawing yourself from an angle that is not facing straight ahead. This will force you to draw the features from memory and not just from what you see in front of you.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Oak Hill Gallery Mornington (@oakhillgallery)

9. Portrait of your best friend

Can you capture your mate’s essence, their personality, their mood? Portraits are great because they allow you to keep practising ways to draw faces, which can be challenging for beginners. If you’re having trouble drawing faces, you can practise drawing eyes first, by making a circle then adding two round dots inside it for pupils. Soon, you’ll have mastery over this facial feature and be eager to move on to eyebrows, lips, nose, and ears.

Others find it easier to draw portraits by using a pencil and tracing paper to outline the photo they wish to draw. Try it! Once the sketch is done, you can add details like eyes, ears and other facial features as needed using circles for eyes and simple shapes for noses or lips. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect yet, just keep at it and don’t forget to enjoy yourself. Even better, make it twice the fun and draw portraits of each other !

10. Portrait of someone famous.

Drawing your favorite celebrity or character from a movie or series will be easier to do if you had a photo to work from, say, from a print or an image on social media. Like with your self-portrait, start with a basic outline, pencil in the features of the face, then add details like hair or accessories, like a pair of glasses or maybe a hat.

Faces are a good way to practise drawing because they are very complicated shapes, but once you get the hang of it, you can move on to other body parts like hands or feet.

11. A pair of hands

Drawing your own hands is an excellent exercise for art class because they’re so different from each other – one might be longer than another, or have larger knuckles or fingers than another person’s. This will help you improve your ability to see objects as three-dimensional objects by drawing them in perspective with foreshortening – a method where you draw an object in depth, the same way we perceive it as it recedes into the distance.

There are so many different types of hand poses and positions that even experienced artists need time to master them all! Start off by drawing basic hand positions like fists or open palms. And then, you can move onto more difficult ones like fingers spread apart or hands gripping objects like pens or paint brushes.

12. Your parents’ wedding photo

Start with a simple sketch of the couple at the altar, then add details like flowers, candles and other wedding decorations in the background. Fill in the drawing with additional features like dad’s bow tie, buttons on his jacket, his eyes, nose, mouth, and other facial features.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Art classes for all ages (@paintwithme.melb)

Next, do the same with mum. Draw her veil, her makeup and perfectly coiffed hair, the laces or beads on her gown, her hands clutching her wedding bouquet, and so on. A few finishing touches will make this drawing look like a professional piece of art (and a good idea for a present on their next anniversary).

Drawing living things

13. your favourite pet.

Animals of all kinds are great subjects for art, even for kiddie artists thinking of what to draw for art class. Even if you’re not an artist, you can learn how to draw animals from memory or you can do a little research on their anatomy, behavior, shapes, and characteristics to add more depth to your illustration. Or you can just use your own pet as a model… if you can ever get them to sit still, that is! (If not, you can always take pictures from all angles and use these as references.)

As with human portraits, try breaking down the drawing into simple shapes: A circle for the head, four more circles for the legs, another one for the tail, an oval shape for each paw pad, and so on. Add details like ears, eyes, nose and mouth, then refine it into its final shape as needed using shading techniques like crosshatching.

14. A bird in flight

First, draw two circles near each other. These will be the head and body of your bird. Next, draw two small rectangles inside the head circle and connect them together with curved lines to form the beak of your bird.

Now, draw two vertical lines on each side of the body, which will serve as guides for drawing the wings later on. Create two large curved lines on each side of your body as well, which will be used for drawing feathers later on.

Draw two small rectangles at the bottom end of each wing and connect them together with curved lines to form the feet of your bird. Finally, add the details and textures like feathers and claws, to make your bird drawing more realistic.

15. A mythical creature

What creature do you want to draw? It could be anything from a dragon to a unicorn. Or something outrageous right out of your imagination!

Choose your medium, like pencil or charcoal, or maybe paints or markers. Now, start sketching out the outline of the body and head in pencil so that you can see how everything is going to fit together before committing it to paper permanently. Use light lines so that they don’t show up when you color them in later on.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rebel Stepz (@rebelstepz)

Start coloring in your sketch using darker lines so that they show up better against the white paper background. Use lighter colors if possible so that your artwork doesn’t look too dark and dull when it’s finished. Finish up by adding shading effects around the edges of your creature’s body and head as well as between its legs (if it has any). This will make it look more realistic and give it more depth.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Frances Cannon (@frances_cannon)

Scenes from nature

16. an autumn leaf falling from a tree.

Autumn leaves are simple but gratifying to draw for art class because of all the beautiful colours you can have on your palette. To start, use a pencil to outline the leaf shape and draw the veins of the leaf with varying degrees of pressure. Next, fill in the outline with light lines and shading, using crosshatching strokes for the veins.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Box Hill Art Group (@boxhillartgroup)

Then, draw the veins again, but this time use hatching strokes (horizontal lines) and crosshatching strokes (vertical lines). Finally, shade in all remaining areas of your drawing using crosshatching strokes or hatching strokes. You can also add details like veins or wrinkles using dots or lines.

17. The sun setting over the ocean

Drawing a sunset is perfect for beginners, as it only requires a few simple shapes and shading, plus it’s easy to see and relaxing, as well.

Start by drawing the horizon line and then draw a circle with rays coming out of it (like a sun). Then, draw a few clouds next to it. Add some waves in the water and use colored pencils to make them appear more realistic. Draw its reflection in the water, and use colors like orange and purple to make it more beautiful. It’s a classic subject, but it’s also very beautiful. It’s probably one of the first things you learned to draw as a kid!

18. The sun, moon and stars

Drawing heavenly bodies is easy. This is a great way to learn how to draw because the shapes you need – basically, a circle and an oval – are simple and easy to replicate. The sun can be drawn as a circle with rays emanating from it, while the moon and stars can be drawn as circles with dots inside them. If you want to add some detail and make your drawing more realistic, try adding clouds in various shapes and sizes to your sky.

Places and landmarks

19. landscape of your hometown.

Places are constantly changing, growing, and morphing into new shapes. And then, there are those things that remain the same across time – the skyline, the neighborhoods, and the memories of your childhood. Look back on your favourite memories and you’ll find countless ideas of what to draw for art class.

Draw an outline first, to keep everything in proportion as well as give you something solid to work with when shading later on in the process. Add details next like rocks or trees; these will add depth and interest to your drawing. Finally, shade in areas where there are shadows or darker colors so it looks more realistic.

20. Cityscape at night

City skylines are always breathtaking to look at, but they’re especially stunning at night. Draw the sky with a dark color like black or blue. Use short strokes and make sure they are not too close together. Make sure the top of your sky goes up as high as you want it; this will help you decide how tall your buildings should be later on. Next, add stars and maybe some clouds with white chalk or pencils on top of your blue sky. You can add them anywhere you want in different sizes and numbers.

Now, draw the outline of your city using curved lines that go up and down to create hills and valleys. Then, add trees and other vegetation around the edges of your cityscape. You might add water at the bottom or along one side of your cityscape if you want it to be near water, like a shoreline. If you want, you can also add people or animals walking around in your cityscape.

21. The Eiffel Tower

The French destination is a staple in your typical paint and sip class and is not as difficult to draw for art class as you might imagine. Bet you can imagine it in your mind right now, just from seeing it so often in paintings, books, and films.

Start with a simple straight line; this will be the base of your drawing. Using that line as a guide, draw vertical lines in parallel to each other, to outline the shape of the tower. Next, add the details, like windows and railings, and once that’s done, you can fill the spaces with different shades of gray or black ink.

22. Draw something inspired by your favorite artist or art movement.

Are you a big Picasso fan? Look at some of his artwork and then try to emulate his style. Don’t copy it exactly; it’s just a good starting point if you’re not sure what to do next. Or if you’re more into impressionist paintings, try doing a few sketches that look like Monet or Manet might have done them.

If you like watercolors but don’t know what to paint, why not try making a self-portrait? That’s what Vincent van Gogh did when he was starting out as an artist. He painted his face many times before he finally completed The Potato Eaters, which is now considered one of his most famous works. Whatever kind of art inspires you, use it as inspiration for your own work!

Art is all about creativity and personal expression. If you’re feeling stuck and not sure what to draw for art class , don’t be afraid to experiment with new techniques. Finding inspiration from others can help you get started, but you should always strive to develop your own style. This will allow your confidence as an artist to grow, and that’s the true measure of artistic talent! Here are a few tips that might help.

5 Tips on How to Pick a Subject to Draw

One of the most important decisions you will make as an artist is what to draw. It can be difficult to choose a subject that is interesting. Here are a few tips to help you choose a good subject.

1. Think about what interests you.

If you’re passionate about your subject, your feelings will come through in your work. Then again, it’s also natural for an artist to get bored with a subject after a while, so try to switch things up every now and then.

Let’s say you’re working on a series of drawings, try experimenting with different techniques or mediums. Or just take time away from your canvas. Take a nice, long stroll and maybe you’ll literally get back to the drawing board with fresh, more creative ideas.

2. Choose something that is challenging.

Sure, drawing a flower or a landscape may be easier than something complex, like a person or an animal. However, many artists also believe that complex subjects can be more rewarding to draw than something that is more commonplace. This is because there is more room for detail and expression in a complex subject, and it can be more interesting to see the artist’s interpretation of it.

In addition, challenging yourself with difficult subjects can help improve your skills. Every step of the process becomes more important, you pay closer attention to the details and tend to take your time to get everything right. This level of focus is very rewarding and will make you a better artist.

3. Don’t be afraid to experiment.

It’s easy to feel comfortable in your routine, especially when it comes to art. You know what you’re good at and what you enjoy, so why try something new? But that’s the beauty of art: You can always try new things and explore new subjects for drawing.

If you’re feeling adventurous, explore a new medium or subject matter. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your style. Maybe you’ve been drawing realistically for years, but you’re curious about how anime drawings look. Give it a try! The worst that can happen is that you don’t like the results and go back to your old way of drawing. But who knows, you might find a whole new passion for a style of art that you never considered before, and that’s always exciting.

4. Be patient.

Finding inspiration to draw can be a daunting task. It may take time to find the perfect subject matter, but that’s okay! You don’t need to force yourself to draw something that doesn’t light you on fire. Just relax, take your time, and eventually something truly inspiring will come to you, like it always does!

You can also try hacks to boost your creativity , like playing certain types of music. Give it a go and see what works for you.

5. Don’t give up!

Drawing is as much muscle memory as it is artistic ability. If it’s not perfect the first time around, just keep going! Practice makes perfect, and if you keep working at it, you’ll get better and better.

Think you have to be born with natural talent in order to be good at something? That’s a complete myth. No professional athlete or musician gets good overnight; it takes them years and years of hard work and dedication. The same is true for artists.

For beginners and experienced artists alike, there is always something to inspire your creativity. Take a drawing class today and start tapping into your artistic side!

Anyone can draw. start making art today.

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Hands-on and Minds-curious Art Learning

Art Printables, Worksheets, and PowerPoints

Inside: A collection of printable art worksheets, PowerPoints, and lesson plans to use in art class. (Most of them are FREE!)

Art class should be about more than just making art! Art lessons should introduce students to a variety of works of art and allow them to explore the process, the history, and their own personal connections to the artworks they encounter.

Keeping a class full of students engaged while looking at art takes practice, confidence, inventive activities , and a variety of approaches. But most of us weren’t taught how to talk about art with kids . That’s why I’ve gathered some of my best printable art worksheets and downloads in one place! Most of these art lesson plans can be used for any grade level and there’s enough variety to keep elementary, middle, and high school students interested and intrigued.

Free Printable Art Worksheets

My favorite go-to art lessons come from the Art Appreciation Worksheet Bundle .

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3! 1. Pick an artwork 2. Print one of the Art Appreciation Worksheets 3. Watch with joy as your students connect with and interpret art

The bundle includes 25 printable art worksheets, but everyone who signs up for Your Weekly Art Break , my email newsletter full of art inspiration, gets six FREE art appreciation worksheets . Fill out the form below to receive your free art worksheets and weekly art inspiration.

Free Worksheets!

Art Appreciation Worksheets

In this free bundle of art worksheets, you receive six ready-to-use art worksheets with looking activities designed to work with almost any work of art.

Below, you’ll find a collection of the Art Class Curator posts that include art printables and downloads. These brains-on art activities will jump-start students’ critical thinking skills and breath new life into their  art projects . All of these art lesson plans are all free unless otherwise marked. Most are printable PDFs, but the ones containing PowerPoints are marked.

Free Elements and Principles Printable Pack

This pack of printables was designed to work in a variety of ways in your classroom when teaching the elements and principles of art. You can print and hang in your classroom as posters/anchor charts or you can cut each element and principle of art in its own individual card to use as a lesson manipulative. Click here to download the Elements and Principles Printable Pack.

Free Resource!

Elements & Principles Printable Pack

The Elements & Principles of Art are the foundation of every artwork, but teaching them can be a bore. Wake your students up and engage them with full color artworks, easy to understand definitions, and thought-provoking higher level thinking questions. This versatile resource can be hung in the classroom or used as an art manipulative.

Art Appreciation Printables

• Free Art Appreciation Printable Worksheet Bundle
• Art Appreciation Worksheet Bundle 25-Pack  
• I am… Dorothea Lange: Exploring Empathy
• Character Analysis Art Activity: Twitter Perspectives
• Haikus about Art
• I See, I Think, I Wonder
• “I Feel” Word Wheel: Learning Emotional Literacy in Art Education

Art Appreciation Activities & Art Appreciation Lessons

• Art Description and Drawing Activity
• Virtual Art Museum Field Trip
• Complete the Picture: An Easy Art Appreciation Game for Kids
• Interpreting the Power of the Kongo Nkisi N’Kondi

Artworks Printables

Artworks Worksheets & Artworks Activities

• Art, Horror, and The Sublime: Symbolism in Pablo Picasso’s Guernica
• Kollwitz & Cassatt: Two Views of Motherhood in Art
• Rosa Rolanda Jigsaw Art Learning Activity

Artworks Lessons

• Elements of Art Examples & Definitions
• Principles of Design Examples & Definitions
• Frida Kahlo’s The Two Fridas  Art Discussion Lesson
• Art Analysis Activity for John Gast’s American Progress
• Art Around the World in 30 Days – China
• Masterpiece Monday: Manifest Destiny Art

Art Criticism Printables

Art criticism worksheets.

• SPARK: 5 Art Criticism Steps for Inspired Art Connections and Conversations
• Art History Student Study Guide Worksheets

Art Criticism Activities

• 82 Questions to Ask About Art
• Photograph Analysis Learning Activities

Art Criticism Lessons

• 4 Steps of Art Criticism Lesson
• What is Art? – Aesthetics Lesson Bundle
• Classical Sculpture Analysis Lesson  
• Decoding Style: How to Teach Students to Read an Artwork  

Puzzles About Art Printables

Teaching students about  art and aesthetics  is a great way to make them think about art in a new way. Aesthetics puzzles ignite exciting, meaningful classroom art discussions  and flex students’ philosophical and critical thinking skills.

• Puzzles About Art: The Chimpanzee Painter
• Puzzles About Art: Call it Driftwood

More Art Printables

You can find more art lesson plans in the Art Class Curator store and on Teachers Pay Teachers . Sign up for  Your Weekly Art Break   to get six free art art worksheets and weekly art inspiration delivered to your inbox!

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  Mission The Academy has never changed its purpose - to educate young artists. From the very beginning, the basis of this education has been a harmonious methodical system. This system has changed and improved, reflecting the new growing needs of the time. The Academy gives versatile, deep knowledge that enables our students to develop their artistic voice and work in various directions, from classical to contemporary art.

Saint Petersburg Art Academy in Florence is the first institution in Italy that represents the Classical Renaissance Traditions in figurative art.

Didactics are based on both the original accredited state program of Russian institutions, specialized in Culture and Art, and also on modern European academic programs.

 Academy offers a wide range of programs for Students of all levels of preparation occupied in different fields of Art: 

- Double Degree in Fine Arts; - Bachelor's Degree; - Master's Degree; - PhD Degree; - Professional Development Course; - Evening Course; - Summer School; - Workshops/ plein air/ masterclasses; - Short-term Courses (starting from 1 week).

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History of the St. Petersburg Art Academy in Florence

In 2017 the initiative of state Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg was the impetus for the opening of the official representative office of the Russian academic school in Florence. During the process of developing its activities, the Academy has acquired new cooperation with a number of outstanding artists. Every year the Academy opens contemporary directions in the study of classical art. The unconditional basis for didactic programs of the Academy is the art of Renaissance, postulates of which have been preserved for centuries in the educational system of the Russian academic school. Unique methods of teaching the techniques of realistic figurative art are explained to the students of the Academy by professors with a rich practical experience. At the heart of all the Academy's programs is a consistent and systematic acquisition of knowledge, integrated with a set of disciplines, that were particularly admired by the geniuses of Renaissance. Education system fully recreates a  complex approach to the formation of the artist 's personality. Figurative art skills developed to perfection, combined with universal Renaissance thinking enable our students to achieve great results. In addition to working with live nature, the artist should understand not only anatomical features of the body, but also convey movement, proportions, perspective. To be able to build a composition in space, to perceive it through studying the history of arts, museum teaching, restoration and, finally, to realize his own creativity in the modern world with a help of art marketing tools. The Academy constantly organizes exhibitions, concerts, conferences, master classes - such activities allow students to feel the synthesis of all types of art and to advance in the individual style and understanding of their purpose as an artist.    

St. Petersburg Art Academy in Florence in a partnership with the Institute of Arts and Restoration (Saint-Petersburg, Russia) offers a joint diploma in Fine Arts and Restoration, Art Science, ?ultural Studies and Socio-cultural projects. As well as on licensed programs in Psychology, Management, Pedagogical Education in the field of Art. Classes on a joint diploma system are held bilaterally in Italy (Florence) and Russia (St. Petersburg). Students have the opportunity to study the culture of both countries and visit its best educational and cultural institutions, to undergo practice, which will allow to choose the direction in study and a further personal development, to determine professional and career prospects.

In addition to studying painting and drawing, the program also focuses on the advice of Leonardo da Vinci, paying attention to perspective, atmosphere, proportion, light and shadows, anatomy, colors and overall personal development. Our students learn anatomy, art history, and the italian language as an important cultural component of the Renaissance.

An important part of the education is copying masterpieces of great artists, belonging to different movements (Schools) and learning restoration techniques.

  Bachelor Degree Program -  First Academic Degree with the duration of four academic years. Program description:

Drawing (portrait, nude figure);

Painting (portrait, nude figure);

Artistic Anatomy;

Copying  various academic drawing and painting;

City landscape, Short etudes;

Composition;

Technique and technology of painting materials;

Easel painting restoration and conservation;

Artistic architecture;

Consturction anatomy;

History of art;

Russian and Italian languages.

Post-graduate Second Level Master Program –  Single Academic Degree with a duration of two academic years. This program is accessible to students with First (Bachelor) Degree as well as other type of diplomas.

Program description:

Second Level Master is an extended two year post-graduate program. During this program students are provided with the opportunity to perfect and master their skills by accomplishing more challenging projects, working on complex projects and studying specialized subjects. Students acquire deep knowledge in the field of composition, history of art, restoration and art techniques during the two years.

The PhD Program – a post-graduate academic program with a duration of one year. Program description:

The graduated specialist has an opportunity to demonstrate one’s professional achievments and knowledge by teaching classes and assisting the professor. The program provides the opportunity to prepare personal exhibitions and show work to the public, as well as to take part in the restoration process of the museum-level art works.

Evening School

Description of a course

An additional evening class on Painting, Drawing and other disciplines.

Daily evening course is held from Monday to Friday.

The program includes 3 academic hours of practice a day.

Minimum enrollment requirement for all studio workshops is 5. Students will be notified if this number is not reached 60 days before the first day of class. At that time, they will be given the choice of either enrolling in another workshop, availability permitting, or having their payment refunded. Students may continue to apply to workshops even after the deadline and through the first day of the course.

The didactic educational programme targets different age groups, but since each student receives individual approach, the difficulty level of tasks is given according to the student’s age.

Maximum enrollment 10 students.

All the courses are conducted in English.

Duration of a course

Certification

Official Certificate is awarded to students after successful completion of a program of study.

Enrollment deadline

Enrollment is open during the overall academic year

Short-time courses

In order to guarantee the students the maximum satisfaction from Academy’s educational programs, we give the opportunity to join the course on the short-term basis, in order to evaluate the methodology and the quality of teaching. Students are absolutely free to choose the duration of study, starting from 1 week, and the time to begin. The following options of study are available:

Full-time study includes 6 academic hours a day.

Part-time study includes 6 academic hours a day.

 starting from 1 week

Summer courses

The intensive training course includes the deep immersion in the cultural historical environment of the Renaissance era with the academic program that teaches the fundamentals of drawing, painting, architecture, art history and philosophy. The didactic educational programme targets different age groups, but since each student receives individual approach, the difficulty level of tasks is given according to the student’s age.

The uniqueness of this developmental course is reached by the full immersion of the students in the historical surrounding, in this case, a medieval – Renaissance city. The connection of the method of academic education in the area of visual arts – achieved through centuries – with lectures, excursions and discussions, allows to reach wonderful results in the individual educational process. Practical classes of drawing and painting are conducted by professors who graduated from the most prestigious Art Academies in Russia. Art history lectures and excursions are lead by art historians who have 15 years of work experience in Italy. Such connection of practical learning of fundamentals of Russian classical art with benchmark standards of the Renaissance in the city of Florence constitutes the first cultural project in the history of educational programmes.

What will You study during the course?

Drawing class:

gives theoretical knowledge of a subject;

teaches how to apply the received knowledge and skill in practice;

teaches the linear-constructive drawing of shapes;

teaches how to illustrate a three-dimensional form on paper;

teaches to express the texture and materiality of the objects with different materials;

teaches the stages of work in drawing;

develops spacial perception, artistic and relative thinking;

educates the need of continuous self-development as an artistic individual;

encourages involvement in the heritage of national and worldwide art.

The classes are arranged in a methodical order from simple to complex, slowly becoming more difficult with higher requirements to the quality of work. Important part of study is a continuous accumulation of knowledge and skills, including technical skills. Educative program starts with an introductory conversation, acquaintance of the student with the subject with its goals and tasks, demonstration of materials required for the class (paper, eraser, graphite and other pencils, charcoal, sanguine, sepia, etc.).

Painting class:

develops the culture of visual perception of objects and surrounding phenomena;

teaches the aesthetical nature of painting, theoretical foundations of colour science, perspective, different painting techniques;

teaches how to perceive colour and how to transmit the volume of objects and the linear and aerial perspective with colour;

teaches to use painting tools, modeling the form with the consideration of its colour characteristics in relation to the space and lighting;

helps to acquire the spiritual, ciltural and cultural values, motivating the need to education, self-development and growth of personal qualities;

forms aesthetical perception of art.

Art History class:

gives the knowledge in fundamental stages of Art History development ;

teaches to recognize, analyse and compare the characteristic features of different art eras and correlate them with personal experience;

guarantees the primary knowledge of the role and meaning of Art in culture;

motivates both spiritual and ethical development of a person;

gives knowledge of fundamental concepts of Art;

gives knowledge of the main artistic schools of both Western European and Russian Art;

teaches to distinguish the main characteristics of each artistic style;

teaches to detect the expressive means used by the artists;

teaches to express the thought about the artistic creations of an artist in written and spoken language.

gives the knowledge about the rules of construction of an art form and the characteristics of its perception and realization;

contributes to the ability of transmitting the mood, the state of the colour solution in landscape, to combine different types of studies, sketches used for the composition works;

forms the skills of working in different techniques while executing genre drafts with a focus on details.

 This subject requires skills of all art disciplines (drawing, painting, composition). Plein air constitutes a good school for further development of these skills. During the study students master technical tricks of work with different materials.

one week, ten days, two weeks, three weeks and one month.

Enrollment is open during the overall academic year.

Workshops and Masterclasses

The Academy organizes multiple workshops and masterclasses during the academic year, conducted by the leading instructors from the top artistic universities of Russia as well as the world-famous artists.

For the upcoming events program, please contact: [email protected]

starting from 1 week

Study modes for the programs

Full-time study mode includes 6 academic hours per day from Monday to Friday

Part-time study mode includes 3 academic hours per day from Monday to Friday

Evening courses run from 17:00 until 19:45, from Monday - Friday

All the courses are conducted in English

Total amount of students in a group varies from 12 to a maximum of 15 people

S tudents receive individual attention

P rofessors regularly conduct Masterclasses and Workshops

Financial Aid

St. Petersburg Art Academy in Florence is committed to helping students, the most talented could have a 20% discount for the third and fourth academic years. Academy also gives a discount of 30% to large families and people with disabilities.

All of the disciplines are taught by the leading experienced instructors of the best russian High Schools, Institutions, Academies, Universities, specialized in figurative art.

Upon termination of a course students receive an official certificate of completion, and upon completing the full progam, students receive a diploma.

St. Petersburg Art Academy in Florence has a didactic office in a unique 15-th century Ridolfi Palace is located in the historic centre of Florence, in an easy reachable zone with the good infrastrutture, only in:

100 meters from Santo Spirito,

150 meters from Palazzo Pitti,

300 meters from Ponte Vecchio,

700 meters from Uffizi Gallery,

1 km from Santa Maria Novella railway station,

1,1 km from the Duomo Square and Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.

Schedule of academic year

Fall semester: 1st of october - 21st of December

Winter semester: 9th of january - 20th March

Spring semester: 25th of march - 9th of June

How to apply

We encourage you to apply at least one month prior to entry so that we have enough time to process your application. If you are also applying for funding or will require a visa,  then we strongly recommend that you apply as early as possible. We may consider late applications if we have places available, but please contact the relevant Admissions Office for advice first.

To request your Application Form: info@florusart. com

Website: www.florusart.com

Palazzo di Cosimo Ridolfi

via Maggio 15

50125, Firenze (Italy)

[email protected]

Tel. +39 055 035 1530

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IG851Iy85P8

http://www.artsacademy.ru/additionally/news/1019/

http://www.opificiodellepietredure.it/index.php?it/21/news/587/continuano-i-programmi-formativi-del-progetto-itp

http://www.rainews.it/dl/rainews/TGR/media/tos-Accademia-Repin-San-Pietroburgo-Palazzo-Cosimo-Ridolfi-scuole-di-pittura-e-scultura-12398ba2-02be-4ce0-8dfd-3d53be4acb31.html

https://www.lanazione.it/firenze/cronaca/accademia-arte-russia-1.3699207

https://www.agenzianova.com/a/0/1798846/2018-01-31/firenze-accademia-belle-arti-s-pietroburgo-apre-sede-a-palazzo-cosimo-ridolfi

http://www.lindro.it/dalla-russia-amore-larte/

http://www.artemagazine.it/attualita/item/6110-l-accademia-di-belle-arti-san-pietroburgo-apre-la-sua-sede-fiorentina

15 Via Maggio

Firenze, Toscana, 50125, Italy

Natalia Parenko

Director, Art Critic, Painting and Restoration expert

Professor Yurii Tararin

Professor Yurii Tararin's Portraitwork

Student Artwork

Still Life Study

Portrait Study

Second year Study

Second year Student Portrait study

Second Year Student Portraitwork

Plein-air Artwork

First year student Drawing

Second Year Student Artwork

Human Body Study

Phases of art study

Art and Art Business Classes

Classes and education for artists and creative entrepreneurs offered by other organizations are listed here., the frances mcswain pruitt arts education center, online writing classes with keep st pete lit, classes at the dunedin fine arts center, classes at the morean arts center, classes for creative business owners.