The concepts of spirals and concentric
circles are the focus of this project introducing students to the technique
of mono-printing. Mono-printing is the creation of a single print. In several
other printing processes, the artist is able to create more than one print
from a single work - i.e. with woodcut or linoleum print templates, several
prints can be created.
1. To introduce the lesson, draw
a spiral and a concentric circle on the chalkboard. As a class, discuss the
similarities and differences between these shapes.
2. Bring in objects from nature
that are examples of spirals and concentric circles. Examples include: flowers,
seashells, cut tree trunk, eye balls and finger prints.
3. Display the prints Starry Night
by Vincent Van Gogh and Evening Star by Georgia O'Keefe. Discuss how both
artists used spirals and concentric circles as the symbol for stars. Ask students
why they think the artist didn't use a plain circle. Spirals and concentric
circles radiate energy, as a star radiates light.
4. Have students close their eyes
and imagine what a star would look like close-up. Allow time for visualization.
5. Students now begin the process
of making a monoprint incorporating spirals and/or concentric circles.
6. Using the old paint brushes,
students paint the acrylic sheet or cookie tray with a thin coat of laundry
starch. Pour a small amount of starch
into paper cups for ease of use.
7. Using tempera paints, students
use 1/4" to 1/2" flat brushes to paint their impression of an evening
star onto the starch coated surface. The paint should be a thick consistency.
A spiral or concentric circle should be used somewhere in the design. For
smaller, detailed shapes, paint is applied with Q-tips.
8. When the painting is complete
on the cookie tray or acrylic sheet, gently press the white 11" x 14"
paper on top of the painted surface, making sure to center the image on the
page. The paint will be transferred to the paper giving an interesting effect.
