Abstract Pastel Musical Experience


Minnesota 4-5 Visual Art Standards used in this Lesson:

  • 1. Demonstrate knowledge of the foundations of the arts area.
  • 1A. Describe the characteristics of the elements of visual art including color, line, shape, value, form, texture and space.

  • 1b. Describe how the principles of visual art such as repetition, pattern, emphasis, contrast and balance are used in the creation, presentation or response to visual artworks.

  • 1c. Identify characteristics of Western and non- Western styles, movements and genres in art.

  • 2. Demonstrate knowledge and use of the technical skills of the art form, integrating technology when applicable.
  • 2a. Describe the tools, materials and techniques used in a variety of two- and three-dimensional media such as drawing, printmaking, ceramics or sculpture.

  • 3. Demonstrate understanding of the personal, social, cultural and historical contexts that influence the arts areas.
  • 3a. Describe the personal, social, cultural, or historical contexts that influence the creation of visual artworks including the contributions of Minnesota American Indian tribes and communities.

  • 3b. Describe how visual art communicates meaning.
  • 4. Create or make in a variety of contexts in the arts area using the artistic foundations.
  • 4a. Create original two- and-three-dimensional artworks to express specific artistic ideas.
  • 4b. Revise artworks based on the feedback of others and self-reflection.
  • 5. Perform or present in a variety of contexts in the arts area using the artistic foundations.
  • 5a. Select and assemble artworks for a personal portfolio.
  • 5b. Revise a presentation based on the feedback of others and self-reflection.
  • 6. Respond to or critique a variety of creations and performances using the artistic foundations.
  • 6a. Justify personal interpretations and reactions to works of visual art.

    • Additional Tie-ins

  • Music
  • Abstract representations of feelings/moods
  • Rhythm/repetition in music and art
  • Art movements/styles in history

    • Images of abstract art are shown and discussed in class. (Or a slideshow is shown on art history and the [d]evolution of painting into the abstraction of the 30's through the present.) We discuss how the artworks make the viewers feel, what the works might represent, and what message (if any) the artist might have been trying to convey.

    Art Elements and Principles are discussed as they relate to each abstract artwork.

    A brief demonstration of pastel techniques is shown then paper is handed out.

    Students are to listen to the music being played and make a composition using chalk pastels that "illustrates" the "feel" of the music.

    We draw three artworks while listening to three (very) different musical pieces. After each piece of music/drawing session the teacher asks students to share how it made them feel and how they interpreted the music in their drawings.


    ...