Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to paint a Van Gogh Sunflowers artwork using acrylics, following a tutorial, and utilizing brush stroke techniques. You will also learn some helpful tips along the way.

Materials and Prep

• Paper towels
• Water cup
• Chalk (a few colors)
• Ruler
• Sharpie
• Table easel
• Delicious snack or beverage
• A smile!

Prior to the lesson, make sure you have all the materials ready and set up your work area with the easel and necessary supplies.

Activities

1. Watch a tutorial on painting Van Gogh's Sunflowers using acrylics.

Find a tutorial that demonstrates the step-by-step process of painting Van Gogh's Sunflowers. Pay close attention to the brush stroke techniques used and the color mixing tips provided in the tutorial.

2. Prepare your canvas.

Using the ruler and chalk, lightly sketch the outline of the sunflowers on your canvas. This will serve as a guide for your painting.

3. Start painting!

Begin by applying the background colors using broad brush strokes. Follow the tutorial's guidance on color choices and blending techniques.

4. Add the sunflowers.

Using smaller brushes, carefully paint the sunflowers, paying attention to the details and brush stroke directions. Remember to mix colors to achieve the desired shades and highlights.

5. Finishing touches.

Once you have completed the main elements of the painting, add any additional details or highlights as suggested in the tutorial. Take your time and enjoy the process!

Eighth Grade Talking Points

• "Vincent Van Gogh was a famous Dutch painter who lived in the 19th century. His unique style and use of bold colors made him one of the most influential artists of his time."
• "Sunflowers were a recurring theme in Van Gogh's paintings. He was fascinated by their vibrant colors and used them as subjects in several of his artworks."
• "Acrylic paint is a versatile medium that dries quickly and allows for easy layering. It is commonly used in modern art."
• "Brush stroke techniques refer to the different ways in which you can apply paint to create texture and movement in your artwork. Van Gogh was known for his expressive and visible brush strokes."
• "Color mixing is an important skill in painting. By combining different colors, you can create new shades and tones to enhance your artwork."
• "Remember to take breaks and step back to assess your painting's progress. This will help you make adjustments and ensure that you are capturing the essence of Van Gogh's Sunflowers."