For this project the students learned to mix colors to create new colors. We began by studying the artist Morgan Russell. As a founding member of the Synchromist movement Russell explored the identity of color and form with his non-objective works of art. One example of his work that the students discussed was “Study for Synchromy in Blue Violet.” My students had great fun discussing this work of art and trying to decide what it was and what it meant.
Morgan Russell
(1886-1953)
Study for Synchromy in Blue Violet
1912
Oil & pencil on paper
9 3/4 x 7 in.
Each student began with a white piece of paper. On this they were asked to draw a star, 3 small circles, 1 large circle, 3 triangles, and 2 wavy lines from one side of the paper to the opposite side. These shapes would create the design that they were to paint. Students were given only 5 colors of paint; the primary colors, white, and black paint. They also used a sheet of news paper as their palette to mix their colors.
Students were asked to only use colors that they mixed to paint their art work. We discussed the various names of mixed paint; secondary, and tertiary colors, shades, and tints. In doing this project students were amazed to discover how many colors could be created using only the limited palette that they were given. After the paintings were completed the students used gold paint to highlight and accent their work.
| 
HCPS Home
|
