I saw a similar design on a Christmas card this year, so I decided to turn it into an art project for my 5th graders. We discussed line and sketching, and how to make our lines flowing and carefree, but not sloppy. The trees were to look abstract and whimsical, not too perfect or straight. I absolutely love the way these turned out!
First we drew the trees in pencil and traced in permanent marker... the more crooked the better!
Then we began painting with watercolor, choosing analogous colors for the trees, and contrasting colors for the designs or decorations.
I think they did an awesome job, worthy of any Christmas card!
Hi! I am interested in trying this idea, but I am not an art teacher, so I am unsure where to begin. Do you mind providing some basic instructions? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHi Holly! I'm hoping to have time to do these with my 5th graders this year so I'll take step by step pictures! In the meantime, we started with the distorted triangle shapes for the trees, continuing the top line and looping it in any direction, then added a star where the loop ended. Next we added the trunks, stretching them almost to the bottom of the page, just in case some students had skimpy trees! Last we "decorated" them, traced in permanent marker, and painted with watercolors. Good luck!
DeleteDid you use watercolor paper or card stock for this?
ReplyDeleteHi! I use 80# white sulfite drawing paper for these since we're an elementary school on a budget. :) But watercolor paper or card stock would work great!
DeleteDid you use watercolor paper or card stock for this?
ReplyDelete