Brightly colored plants and animals may be fun to see, but their patterns and colors also serve an important purpose. Survival for creatures in the ocean may mean being able to blend into their surroundings or stand out from the crowd to attract a mate. This lesson plan for grades 9-12 incorporates the use of semi-moist watercolors on black art paper to bring the brilliant colors of ocean creatures to life.
Brilliantly Colored Sea Creatures Art Project
Throughout history, many talented artists have been drawn to the wonderful color and light that makes the ocean such a beautiful and mysterious landscape. Its inhabitants are just as beautiful and this lesson plan gives students an opportunity to explore the large variety of unique creatures, as well as the reasons behind their brilliant colors.
Using the Richeson Metallic and Matte Collegiate Semi-Moist Watercolors on the Black Art Paper may require the practice of specific techniques, so be sure to demonstrate the ways that the watercolors can be layered to create a more rich or opaque color.
View the Lesson Plan: Brilliantly Colored Sea Creatures
Tips for the Brilliantly Colored Sea Creature Project:
- Encourage students to choose a subject whose coloring tells an interesting story. Be sure to explore the inspiration for the subject’s name and how it uses its coloring to survive in an ocean environment.
- Have students perfect their background before transferring their ocean creature to their Black Art Paper.
- Highlight important Elements and Principals of Design that students should keep in mind when planning their piece.
More Watercolor Art Lesson Plans and Ideas
Watercolor paints create a softer look, and the use of the Richeson Black Art Paper breaks from the more traditional use of watercolors to create a piece that stands out. Want to try something else? Be sure to check out these other art lesson plans and visit the Art Lesson Plans tag page.
Share Your Star Students’ Artwork
We love student art! Give your star students an opportunity to shine by submitting their artwork to be considered for the next Sax catalog cover. Original artwork from students of all grade levels is eligible and the online submission process is simple.
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