Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to create animal-themed visual art and appreciate the beauty and diversity of animals through art.
Materials and Prep
Materials needed:
- Drawing paper
- Pencils and erasers
- Colored pencils or markers
- Reference images of animals
Before the lesson, familiarize yourself with different types of animals and their characteristics. Choose at least one animal to focus on for your art activities.
Activities
1. Animal Sketching: Use the reference images to sketch the outline of an animal on the drawing paper. Pay attention to the details such as fur, feathers, or scales.
2. Color Your Animal: Use the colored pencils or markers to add color to your animal sketch. Pay attention to the natural colors of the animal and try to capture its essence.
3. Animal Collage: Cut out pictures of different animals from magazines or printouts and create a collage on a separate sheet of paper. Arrange the animals to create an interesting composition.
Eighth Grade Talking Points
- Animals have been a source of inspiration for artists throughout history. For example, Leonardo da Vinci studied and sketched various animals to understand their anatomy and movement. He said, "The smallest feline is a masterpiece."
- Art allows us to express our admiration and love for animals. As Pablo Picasso once said, "Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life."
- Through art, we can explore the diversity of animals and their habitats. As Jane Goodall, the renowned primatologist, said, "Only if we understand, can we care. Only if we care, will we help."