Visual Art – Term 1Elements of ArtLine: A long, thin mark or stroke usually made with a pencil, pen or charcoal.

Tone: A series of shades from dark to light, often used to show shadows

Shape: The outline of the object being drawn.

Texture: The look and feel of the object, rough or smooth.

Design PrinciplesBalance: All the parts of the artwork need to be the same in “weight”

Contrast: Showing the difference between dark and light.

Emphasis: Special importance given to a particular part of the artwork.

A 2-D drawing is flat and shows the shape of the object.

A 3-D drawing has depth and shows the form of the object.

Activities:

a. Walk the pencil.b. Sketch a coke can.c. Sketch your shoe or Complete the face.

d. Leaves in a circle or Shells on a tray.

PatternsA pattern is a repeated line, shape or colour. A rhythm may be created when you repeat art elements (just like in music). When pieces of the art work fit together and work together there is a sense of unity and harmony. We can create variety by making something in the artwork look different and more interesting. Too much variety can become confusing and too little will be boring. We need to strike a balance.

A good artist uses his eyes and observes his subject closely.

Activity:a. Design a tile pattern for a bathroom or kitchen wall or floor.

The African Mask:Masks were used by different cultures around the world to celebrate ceremonies and rituals. Every country in Africa had a different style and technique. Masks were often symbolic and had great meaning. African masks are part of African culture and heritage. Masks may have been made out of wood, grass, shells and bone (very seldom were they made from metal). Modern materials such as plastic were not used. They were decorated with colours from the environment.

1. A mask is not a photograph of a person.2. A mask is symmetrical.3. Facial features are simple and sometimes exaggerated.4. The face is decorated with repeated patterns.

Activity:Design and make your own African Mask. Use recyclable materials to create an interesting 3-D mask. Your mask must have texture and colour. Attach your mask to a stick so that you can hold it up in front of your face. You are not going to make cut outs for the eyes and mouth.

Art Appreciation1. What is the title of the art work?2. Who is the artist? 3. What medium was used?4. Write a paragraph on the art elements used and how it enhances the art work.5. Do you think the artist is trying to express an idea, thought or message. What do

you think it is?6. How do you feel about the art work?

Earthenware Figures

Activity:You are going to create 2 musicians out of clay. (20 marks)

Art Elements Use of shape and form Use of texture

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Modelling Technique Pinching Rolling

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Design Principles Balance Proportion Emphasis Contrast

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Joining techniqueDecoration

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