Rhythm with Reflective Objects

Submitted by: Suzette Milam
Title: Rhythm with Reflective Objects
Grade Level: Advanced Middle School or High School

Objective:

Students will learn to create interesting compositions that focus on rhythm using objects that reflect light.

Instructions:

Gather several objects that are reflective for the assignment. Discuss composition with students first. Use examples of good and bad compositions using simple shapes on the board. Demonstrate various compositions that focus on different principles of art. Explain that with this project the objective is to focus on rhythm.

Let the students choose the object that they are interested in drawing. Handout a piece of 8"X11" (21 x 28 cm) paper for the contour line drawing. When they have drawn the object using contour line, they may begin to compose the rhythm they would like for the final drawing using the light box.

Using 12"x 18" (30.5 x 46 cm) paper they repeat the object in an interesting composition. They then shade the objects in the picture carefully noting the reflective shine. Demonstrate the use of a stomp (Use Tortillons if you can't find stomps for sale in your area) and erasing shield for the students to get careful value changes.

Click on the image at right for full size.

Supplies:

• 81/2" x 11" (21.5 x 28 cm) white Drawing Paper

• 12" x 18" (30.5 x 46 cm) white Drawing Paper

• Drawing Pencils

• Light Box

• Stomps (or Tortillons)

• Erasing Shields

• Kneaded Rubber Erasers

Evaluation:

1. Does the composition show rhythm in an interesting way?

2. Does the composition fill the page?

3. Is there a full range of value?

4. Does the object look reflective?

Resources

Books that feature artists who use a pencil as the medium.

M.C. Escher: His Life and Complete Graphic Work - This is the total collection of every work done by M.C. Esher. This book is perfect for a serious fan of the graphic work of M.C. Esher. The book also gives biographical information as well as in depth information on many of his works.

150 Masterpieces of Drawing - Full-page reproductions of drawings from the early 15th century to the end of the 18th century, all beautifully reproduced: Rembrandt, Michelangelo, Dürer, Fragonard, Urs Graf, Wouwerman, many others. First-rate browsing book, model book for artists.

Drawing Book: A Survey of Drawing - The Primary Means of Expression - The works in The Drawing Book, by artists, architects, sculptors, scientists, filmmakers and thinkers of all descriptions, attest to the versatility and immediacy of drawing. From first thoughts to finely wrought, elaborate artworks, from the lightest sketch in pencil to bold, gallery-wall installations, the medium is shown as an essential vehicle for creativity.