2X4 Block Painting

Minnesota 6-8 Visual Art Standards
Used in this Lesson

  • 1. Demonstrate knowledge of the foundations of the arts area.
  • 1A. Analyze how the elements of visual art including color, line, shape, value, form, texture and space are used in the creation of, presentation of, or response to visual artworks.

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

  • 1c. Describe 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. Demonstrate the characteristics of the tools, materials and techniques of various two-and-three- dimensional media for intentional effects in original artworks.

  • 3. Demonstrate understanding of the personal, social, cultural and historical contexts that influence the arts areas.
  • 3a. Compare and contrast the connections among visual artworks, their purposes, and their personal, social, cultural and historical contexts, including the contributions of Minnesota American Indian tribes and communities.

  • 3b. Analyze the meanings and functions of visual art.
  • 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 in a variety of artistic contexts.
  • 4b. Revise artworks based on the feedback of others and self-reflection and artistic intent.
  • 4c. Develop an artistic statement, including how audience and occasion influence creative choices.
  • 5. Perform or present in a variety of contexts in the arts area using the artistic foundations.
  • 5a. Assemble and prepare personal artworks for public exhibition.
  • 5b.Revise a presentation based on the feedback of others, self-reflection and artistic intent.
  • 5c. Develop an artistic intent, including how audience and occasion impact presentation choices.
  • 6. Respond to or critique a variety of creations or performances using the artistic foundations.
  • 6a. Analyze and interpret a variety of visual artworks using established criteria.

    • Additional Tie-ins

  • Painting skills
  • Holiday decor
    • Students are shown a few examples of 2X4 block paintings as inspiration.

    Students are given a rough cut block and sandpaper. They should sand the block smooth and slightly round the corners before painting.

    Students develop one geometric design on paper first. (Sample geometric construction done in class can be found here.)The teacher also shows how to lay out graphite on the back of a finished design and transfer it to the wood block.

    Students may water down paint so as to stain the wood. When it is dry, sand paper can used to create an antiqued/distressed look.



    Evaluation:
    3 point -- Block sanded smooth with rounded corners
    3 points -- Geometric "barn quilt" design on one side
    2 points -- Detailed design on second side
    2 points -- Neat/clean finished product
    10 points total


    Front and back of Abbi P.'s block above




    Fish and Girl above by Nikki S.




    Bird and Sky above by Gracie N.