MAYA GLYPHS IN CHARCOAL

 Maya Glyphs In Charcoal

Learning Targets

I can...

• Create an original Maya Glyph In Charcoal using drawing techniques learned in class
• Use line types (continuous, contour, outline), shape variation (geometric, organic, free form), and space (positive, negative) inspired by Mayan Hieroglyphs
• Use drawing methods (charcoal, powder, pigment) and design principles (gradation, proportion, balance) based on the Classic Period
• Define Glyph (symbolic figure or character (system of writing) incised or carved in relief

Lesson One
Day One, Art Start

1. Structure 23, Lintel 25, Yaxchilan (Maya) 

2. Read Breaking The Maya Code by Michael D. Coe

3. Discussion Questions "What did Mayans use glyphs for? How old are Mayan glyphs? What were mayan writing symbols called? How was Mayan art heavily influenced by other religions and cultures? Where the Mayan kings successful in wanting their artwork to be remembered throughout history? Why were wood carvings very popular pieces of art for the Mayans? What sense from daily life, mythology, battles, and religious ceremonies are being included here? How do these glyphs provide an important source of information about Maya society?"

Lesson Activities

1. Choose 12" X 12" Drawing Paper

2. Use shape variation (geometric, organic, free form) to draw the positive space (symbols) for the charcoal glyphs

3. Use line types (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) to add details (shadows, highlights) to the positive space (glyphs) of the Maya Glyphs In Charcoal

Day Two, Art Start

1. Retrieve Maya Glyphs In Charcoal for Assigned Tables

2. Mayan Glyphs, Kwamikagmi

3. Discussion Questions "When was the ancient Mayan Period? What would you find inside these structures? What are the names of these hieroglyphics? Who was the last ruler of Maya? What does the word hieroglyphs mean? What is the importance behind these hieroglyphs? What is the oldest known monumental sculpture in Maya? What was the purpose of Maya art? Who built the Maya templates?"

Lesson Activities

1. Use neutral colors (black, grey, white) to fill in the positive space (glyphs) of the charcoal glyphs

2. Use neutral colors (black, grey, white) to fill in the negative space (background) of the charcoal glyphs

3. Use line types (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) to fill in the positive space (glyphs) with designs for the Maya Glyphs In Charcoal

Day Three, Art Start

1. Retrieve Maya Glyphs In Charcoal for Assigned Tables

2. Set Up Studio Area (charcoal, colors pencils, erasers)

Lesson Activities

1. Add highlights (light source, reflective light) to positive space (foreground) of the charcoal glyphs

2. Add shadows (cast shadow, shadows) to negative space (background) of the charcoal glyphs

3. Use neutral colors (black, grey, white) to outline the line types (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) of the positive space (foreground) of the Maya Glyphs In Charcoal 

Artist Examples

Student Examples