Shiny and Bright

As fifth grade finishes up their whimsical trees, we began a second project in our discussion of abstract art that goes along with our trees.  We discussed line, shape, and shading to create these beautiful shiny ornaments.

 First they traced an assortment of circles, overlapping them and stacking them from the bottom up.  We added hooks and a highlight to each one...

 Then we discussed hatching and crosshatching as a method of shading with pen and ink, or permanent marker in our case...

Once they've finished tracing all the lines in permanent marker, they will use watercolor to bring them to life!  Choosing two analogous colors, they will paint the darker color on the side that's furthest away from the highlight.

This student stacked hers from the center going out, which creates a different view for the stack of ornaments.  Either way you stack them, these are just beautiful!