Acrylic paint, foil origami paper, and some creativity will make this monoprint-making lesson plan a favorite for artists, both young and more advanced. The Gel Powers with Pizzazz art lesson plan incorporates working in stages and conceptualizing artistic ideas to complete the project.
Multimedia Monoprint in the Art Classroom
The monoprint is a type of printmaking where an image is created to be printed but can only be printed once. This technique allows for only the original piece—with the potential for a lighter “ghost print.”
Often created through the use of hand-coloring or collage, a monoprint is special because it allows for many combinations of printmaking, painting, and drawing media. And each print is unique. Many monoprint pieces are reworked by hand before or after the printing, making the finished work look and feel more spontaneous.
Gel Powers with Pizzazz Project
Artists known for their monoprint work include Hercules Seghers, Rembrandt, Benedetto Castiglione, William Blake, and Edgar Degas. The application of mixed media on the notecards requires some forethought, so students can start by conceptualizing or searching for inspiration in cultural and historical artwork. The monoprint pads are reusable, so students can create more than one original print to place on their notecards.
Art Lesson Plan: Gel Powers with Pizzazz
Tips for creating a monoprint:
- Keep the layer of acrylic paint thin so that excess does not cover the design during the pressing.
- Consider how different color mixes interact with each other and with the paper applied to the notecard surface. Will the design be visible?
- Try applying multiple monoprints to overlap, creating depth and mixing colors.
More Painting Art Lesson Plans
Check out the tools and supplies needed for this lesson plan and others at the School Specialty online store and make this year’s student art stand out. Need more painting projects? The Schoolyard is happy to drop a few more suggestions below!
Share Your Star Students’ Artwork
We love student art! Give your star students an opportunity to shine by submitting their artwork to be considered as a featured artist! The monthly winner receives a $250 gift certificate for both them and the teacher who inspired them. Original artwork from students of all grade levels is eligible, and the online submission process is simple.
