📖

Contemporary American Art

American Art: Mid-20th Century

Day 150of 180
Week 30of 36
45Minutes
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🖨️ Download Worksheet (PDF)
🎯 What You'll Learn

Learning Objectives

1

Understand key characteristics of mid-20th century American art movements

2

Create an original artwork inspired by abstract expressionism

3

Develop appreciation for artistic creativity as a form of personal expression

📖 Scripture Connection

Exodus 35:31-32

“He has filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all kinds of skillful work, to design artistic works.”

— Exodus 35:31-32 (WEB)

Demonstrates God's gift of creativity and artistic ability as a divine blessing

📦 Materials Needed

  • Large white paper or canvas
  • Acrylic paints
  • Paintbrushes (various sizes)
  • Water cup
  • Paper towels
  • Protective tablecloth
📚 Step-by-Step

Lesson Plan

1Opening (5 min)

Welcome to today's BibleMouse art exploration! We'll dive into the exciting world of mid-20th century American art and discover how artists express themselves through color and movement.

💭 Review Question: What did we learn about Pop Art yesterday?
2Teaching (15 min)

Introduction to Abstract Expressionism and artists like Jackson Pollock

📌 Key Talking Points:
  • Art as a way of expressing emotions and ideas
  • How artists use color, movement, and spontaneity
  • Understanding that creativity reflects God's own creative nature
💬 Discussion Questions:
  • How might different colors represent different feelings?
  • What makes art meaningful?
3Activity: Abstract Expression Painting (18 min)
project

Create a personal artwork using techniques inspired by Abstract Expressionism

📝 Instructions:
  1. Choose 3-4 colors that represent your current mood
  2. Experiment with different brush techniques
  3. Allow paint to flow and mix naturally
  4. Focus on expressing feelings through color and movement
🔄 Variations:

Simpler: Use fewer colors and larger brushstrokes

Challenge: Incorporate symbolic elements representing personal experiences

4Closing (7 min)

Share and discuss artwork, reflecting on creative process

📝 Review Questions:
  • What did you discover about yourself while creating?
  • How does your artwork tell a story?

Coming up: Tomorrow we'll explore Assemblage Art and how ordinary objects can become extraordinary

👨‍👩‍👧 For Parents

Teaching Notes

📚 Background:

Abstract Expressionism emerged in 1940s-1950s, emphasizing spontaneous, intuitive creation

💡 Teaching Tips:
  • Encourage freedom of expression
  • Focus on process, not perfection
  • Allow child to explain their artistic choices
🤔 Common Struggles:

Children might feel uncertain about non-representational art

👀 Signs of Understanding:

Enthusiasm, willingness to experiment, ability to discuss artistic choices

🚀 Want More?

Extension Activities

  • Research additional Abstract Expressionist artists
  • Create a family art gallery showcasing individual expressions
  • Explore BibleMouse Printables Library for additional art resources

Ready for Tomorrow?

Great job completing today's lesson!

Continue to Day 151 →Back to Art