3 sessions; 30 minutes per session

1. SWBAT create abstract paintings using dots.

1. Acrylic paint

2. Paint brushes (various handle thicknesses)

3. Recycled cardboard

4. Paper plates to use as a paint palette

5. Paper towels

6. Cup of water

7. Compass for making circles

Need these materials? Visit Blick!

1. Cut a piece of recycled cardboard down to a manageable size.

2. Paint the surface of the cardboard in black. Let dry. (Students can choose a different color if they prefer.)

3. Using a compass draw curved lines or circles across the cardboard. You can start at the center or have it off-center. The lines will act as a guide for when you start adding your dots.

4. Select which colors you want to use. Keep it simple 3 or 4 colors should be enough. Once students get the hang of it they can create other dot paints using even more colors.

5. Using the end of your paint brushes make dots of various sizes along the curved lines you made in step 3. You can have small dots surrounding larger dots, or even different color dots on top of each other. Use your imagination. (When adding a different color on top of another make sure the paint is dry first.)

The most important thing to tell students is to TAKE YOUR TIME. You are not being graded on speed. Just relax and have fun.

Here's a tip. Since acrylic dries fast place a damp paper towel on top of the paper plate before you add your paints. This will allow you to use the paint longer. This is especially great for students that mix their own colors.

Abstract Art

Acrylic, Painting