Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to create your own artwork inspired by Ancient Egypt, Greece, or Rome, using only materials available during those time periods.

Materials and Prep

• Papyrus paper or parchment paper
• Charcoal or natural pigments
• Pencil or stylus
• Reference books or online resources about Ancient Egypt, Greece, or Rome
• Optional: Clay or clay tablets for additional activity

Before starting the lesson, familiarize yourself with the art styles and symbols used in Ancient Egypt, Greece, or Rome. You can find information in books or online resources.

Activities

• Create an Ancient Egyptian Hieroglyphic Drawing: Use papyrus paper or parchment paper and charcoal or natural pigments to create a drawing inspired by Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. Research common symbols and their meanings, and incorporate them into your artwork.
• Design a Greek Pottery: Using a pencil or stylus, draw a Greek pottery design on a piece of clay or clay tablet. Research different pottery styles and patterns used in Ancient Greece, and try to recreate them on your own.
• Construct a Roman Mosaic: Use small pieces of colored paper or clay to create a Roman mosaic. Research different mosaic patterns and motifs used in Ancient Rome, and create your own unique design.

Talking Points

• Ancient Egypt:
  • "Ancient Egyptians used hieroglyphics as a form of written communication."
  • "The symbols in hieroglyphics represented different objects, sounds, or ideas."
  • "Pharaohs and important figures were often depicted in profile, while less important people were shown in a more frontal view."
• Ancient Greece:
  • "Greek pottery was not only functional but also served as a way to tell stories and depict important events."
  • "Different regions in Greece had their own unique pottery styles and patterns."
  • "Ancient Greeks often used black-figure or red-figure techniques to decorate their pottery."
• Ancient Rome:
  • "Mosaics were a popular form of decoration in Ancient Rome, often used to adorn floors and walls."
  • "Roman mosaics were made using small colored pieces of stone, glass, or clay called tesserae."
  • "Mosaic designs often depicted scenes from mythology, nature, or everyday life."