Experimenting with Pattern and Printmaking
Abbie’s Year Three and Four class joined me in the art room today for a huge day of experimentation with printmaking. I wanted the students to have the opportunity to explore the possibilities of texture and colour combinations in printmaking.
To start the day the students used black marker to explore different ways of making marks and patterns. Then the students had some fun with the tempera paints and painted their patterns in a rainbow of colours.
Next the students designed and made their printing boards. I asked the students to split their boards into four spaces and then fill each space with a pattern. I talked to students about how to add contrast to their printing boards by varying the size, design and shape of their patterns.
Next the students started their printmaking exploration. Each table was set up with a different coloured ink and a pile of coloured paper. The students printed the different inks on a variety of coloured paper, paying attention to which outcomes they liked best. As per usual in a printmaking lesson excitement levels were high as the students printed and revealed their prints.
The aim was to have fun, explore, experiment and make A LOT of prints today. When they had finished printing the students helped tidy up and then chose two prints to frame. I explained that the two prints didn’t necessarily have to be their favourite examples. I modelled how to choose the prints based on the colours in the prints and of the backing paper.
The students had a fabulous time making their prints today and I am really pleased with the learning that happened during this process based lesson. I’m looking forward to the next time Abbie’s class visits the art room.
