Still Life 5^th Grade

Discuss Still-Life with Fruit and Lemons by Paul Gauguin c. 1880’s. We can assume that this piece was done in oil. This was the era when artists were finally able to get their oil paints in tubes and no longer had to mix their own.  Have a discussion on what media they would like to use.  If using the selected media is not possible, then explain that although you have found it advantageous to use the media, you will be using what you have due to constraints. You may wish to discuss with the students that when artists are limited on money, their choice of media is due to financial means.  Point out that some artists would paint over old or unwanted paintings, more recently artists will “freecycle” found items to use in their art.

Have the students sketch their still life before they do their painting.

Core Standard 1

Objective 1 b. Observe objects in detail and portray them with greater accuracy in works of art.

 Objective 2 a. Preplan the steps or tasks to achieve a desired image

                       b. Select appropriate media in which to portray a variety of subjects for works of art.  

                       c. Use preparatory sketches to solve visual problems before beginning an actual work of art.

Objective 3.a. Practice appropriate behavior with sharp or dangerous tools at all times.

                      b. Dispose of waste materials in keeping with EPA Standards and appropriate recycling methods.

                                                                            * Follow the label instructions.

Some labels give disposal recommendations. Read the label carefully and follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

1.        Use it up.

When products are fully used up as intended there is no hazardous waste. Buy only as much as you need. Don't buy a gallon of paint,  or specialty cleaner when a quart will do. The large container may cost less per ounce, but leftovers must be stored or disposed of so as not to harm people or the environment.

2.        Recycle.

Recycling means making potential waste clean, so that the product is usable again. Recycling helps reduce the overall demand for hazardous household products and the amount of waste produced. Presently recycling is available for only a small number of products. Paint thinner can be recycled.

You can recycle paint thinner. Pour paint thinner or cleaner into a jar. Let it sit for several days. The solids will settle to the bottom. When the liquid at the top of the jar is clear, pour it into a container that can be sealed until future use. If pouring stirs up the solids, pour the clear liquid through a funnel lined with old sheet fabric. Dispose of the dried solids in your trash.

                   c. Clean and put back to order art making areas after projects

                   d. Respect other students’ artwork as well as one’s own.

Core Standard 2

 Objective 1 d. Classify works of art as realistic, abstract, geometric or organic.

Core Standard 3

Objective 1 a. Determine the context by examining the subject matter, themes, symbols, ideas and meanings in significant works of art.