Richard Ahnert: Mixed Media Animal/Human Portraits

Grade level: 4-8
Art form: mixed media Drawing, painting and collage
Lesson length time: Half day

 

Lesson Objective

Ever notice how certain animals have personalities? Why is it that a fox is considered sly, a crow is associated with death or a bunny with cuteness? What kinds of humans suit animal personalities? After looking at and discussing the anthropomorphic paintings of Toronto artist Richard Ahnert, students will create through drawing, painting and collaging, an animal/human character of their own.

Learning Outcomes

Students will:

  • learn vocabulary of art techniques and practices (collage, drawing, proportion, crossed creatures)
  • explore elements of design (shape and form, space, line, colour, texture and value)
  • explore principles of design (balance, emphasis, harmony, movement, proportion, rhythm, unity, variety)
  • learn about a local artist and their art
  • have an opportunity to explore with materials and concepts
  • be encouraged to create art in a comfortable and supportive environment
  • apply critical thinking skills in their analysis of art work and creation of their own art work

Curriculum Connections

Visual Arts, Social Sciences and History, Science and Technology