Saturday, February 21, 2026
CATCHING BUTTERFLIES COLLAGES
Catching Butterflies Collages
Learning Targets
I can...
- Create an original Catching Butterflies Collages using drawing techniques learned in class
- Use line types (horizontal vertical diagonal), shape variation (geometric organic free form), and texture (actual visual implied) inspired by German Illustrator (1647-1717) Maria Sibylla Merian
- Use collage techniques (juxtaposition, layering, composition, adhesive) and design principles (variation emphasis movement) based on Scientific Illustrations
- Define Illustration (a visual representation (drawing, painting, photograph, digital image) created to explain, interpret, decorate, or enhance text, concept, or process)
Lesson One
Day One, Art Start
1. Merian's Branch Of West Indian Cherry With Achilles Morpho Butterfly (1702-1703) Maria Sibylla Merian
2. Read Butterfly Park by Elly MacKay
3. Discussion Questions "Did you know Merian traveled to Suriman with her daughter at the age of 52 to study tropical flora and fauna? Did you know she was the first artist to embark on a field excursion when these did not exist in science yet? Did you know her step father was the renowned still life painter Jacob Marrel? Do you think art, science, natural observation, and artistic intention work well together? Are there any aspects of her life and work that you find particularly remarkable? Did you know Merian was alive during the Dutch Golden Age? How do you think she was a successful artist despite many restrictions on women at the time? Did you know Merian funded her own artwork by selling her drawings, engravings, and books? Did you know Merian invented the field of ecology we know today? What advice do you think Merian would give young women considering science as a career path today?"
Lesson Activities
1. Choose a butterfly reference photograph for the positive space (foreground, butterfly) of the Catching Butterflies Collages
2. Use line types (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) to fill in positive space (foreground, butterfly) of the Catching Butterflies Collages
3. Use line types (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) to fill in the negative space (background) of the Catching Butterflies Collages
Day Two, Art Start
1. Retrieve Catching Butterflies Collages for Assigned Table
2. Butterfly Peacock Mirror On Forage Plant (1705) Maria Sibylla Merian
3. Discussion Questions "What medium do you think the illustrator used? Why do you think that they choose these colors? Is there a reason yellow is shown only on a couple of pages? Why do the colors change on this page when the main character is sad? Are all the lines in this book pointing in only one direction? Why are the lines pointing in one direction? How many patterns are on this single page? How can we care for our caterpillars and butterflies? Can you show me the flight path the butterfly took before it reached the net? Do you see any patterns or designs on the wings that might help the butterfly hide? What kind of background should we add to show where this butterfly lives- a garden, a river, or a mountain? What can you tell me about the person with the net- are they running fast or sneaking quietly? If your butterfly escaped the net, where is the first place it would fly too? How can we make both sides match like a mirror? Where does your butterfly go when it rains? Should we catch this butterfly to study in a journal or is it going to a special butterfly garden?"
Lesson Activities
1. Draw an outline of the selected butterfly reference for the positive space (foreground, butterflies) onto the watercolor paper
2. Use graphite techniques (engraving, carving, scratching) with a stylus to add highlights (light source, reflective light) to the Catching Butterflies Collages
3. Use graphite techniques (engraving, carving, scratching) with a stylus to add shadows (reflective light, cast shadow) to the Catching Butterflies Collages
Day Three, Art Start
1. Retrieve Catching Butterflies Collages for Assigned Tables
2. Set Up Studio Area (glue sticks, scissors, watercolor, paint brushes)
Lesson Activities
1. Use graphite techniques (carving, scratching, engraving) with a stylus to finish adding details (clouds, leaves, net) to the Catching Butterflies Collages
2. Add value (lightness, darkness, highlights, shadows) to the positive space (foreground, butterflies) of the Catching Butterflies Collages
3. Add details (clouds, leaves, nets) using illustrative techniques (hatching, stippling, cross hatching) to the final Catching Butterflies Collages
Artist Examples
Student Examples
Monday, December 1, 2025
JACQUES COUSTEAU SCUBA DIVER COLLAGES
Jacques Cousteau Scuba Diver Collages
Learning Targets
I can...
- Create an original Jacques Costeau Scuba Diver Collage using drawing techniques learned in class
- Use color combinations (warm colors, cool colors, analogous colors), shape variation (geometric, organic, free form), and line types (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) inspired by French Oceanographer/Filmmaker (1910-1997) Jacques Cousteau
- Use collage techniques (overlapping, layering, assemblage, cutting) and design principles (movement, proportion, gradation) based on French Photography
- Define Tinker (to experiment with making, changing, or fixing something)
Lesson One
Day One, Art Start
1. Calypso Oceanographic Expedition: Cousteau, Taillez, and Dumas (1952) Jacques Cousteau
2. Read Man Fish: A Story Of Jacques Cousteau by Jennifer Berne
3. Discussion Questions "What do you see in this picture? What colors and shapes stand out? Does this artwork remind you of anything you have seen in real life or in a movie (Finding Nemo; Octonauts)? How does this art make you feel about the ocean? If you could jump into this picture, what do you think it would feel like, sound like, and smell like? Do you see any special tools or machines in this picture? What do you think they are used for? Did you know Jacques Cousteau co-invented the Aqua Lung (SCUBA)? How did this help people explore the ocean differently than before? Why was it important for him to have a special camera to take picture and videos underwater? Can you stop the Calypso, his famous research ship, or a small submarine (diving saucer)? What title would you give this piece of artwork?"
Lesson Activities
1. Choose 12" X 15" Drawing Paper
2. Use geometric shapes (oval, circle, cylinder) to draw the basic shapes of the positive space (gear, swim wear, sea creatures) for the scuba diver collages
3. Use value (lightness, darkness) to add shadows (reflective shadow, cast shadow, shadow) and highlights (reflective highlight, light source) for the Jacques Cousteau Scuba Diver Collages
Day Two, Art Start
1. Retrieve Jacques Cousteau Scuba Diver Collages for Assigned Tables
2. Guy Morandiere and Octopus (1950) Jacques Cousteau
3. Discussion Questions "What kinds of animals or plants can you identify in the artwork? Does this artwork show a healthy ocean, or one that needs our help? What part of the ocean would you like to explore, and why? If you were an ocean explorer, what promise would you make to help take care of the Earth's waters? Can you find the iconic red beanie hats that were iconic for his crew in this artwork? What do you think it was like to be part of his team? What title would you give this piece of artwork? What story do you think the artist is trying to tell us about Jacques Cousteau or the ocean? What is something in nature that you love and would want to project? What is one thing you could do to help it right now? Who is the first sea creature you want to visit, and what do you hope to learn from it? If you could make a new show about the ocean today, what would you name it and what hidden creature would be the star? IF you were an inventor like Jacques Cousteau, what is one new invention you could create to help clean up the seas or protect the animals in them?"
Lesson Activities
1. Add line types (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) to decorative patterns (stripes, swirls, waves) of the Jacques Cousteau Scuba Diver Collages
2. Use decorative patterns (stripes, swirls, waves) to add designs to the positive space (gear, swim wear, sea creatures) of the Jacques Cousteau Scuba Diver Collages
3. Use color combinations (analogous, warm colors, cool colors) to fill in the negative space (background) of the Jacques Cousteau Scuba Diver Collages
Day Three, Art Start
1. Retrieve Jacques Cousteau Scuba Diver Collages for Assigned Tables
2. Set Up Studio Area (scissors, glue sticks, texture templates, sea creature references)
Lesson Activities
1. Use color combinations (analogous, warm colors, cool colors) to fill in the positive space (foreground, middle ground, scuba diver) of the Jacques Cousteau Scuba Diver Collages
2. Add highlights (reflective light, light source) to the positive space (foreground, middle ground, scuba diver) of the Jacques Cousteau Scuba Diver Collages
3. Add illusion of depth by adding shadows (cast shadow, reflective shadow) to the negative space (background) of the Jacques Cousteau Scuba Diver Collages
Artist Examples
Student Examples
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
PAULINE LOCTIN ABSTRACT COLLAGES
Pauline Loctin Abstract Collages
Learning Targets
I can...
- Create an original Pauline Loctin Abstract Collages using drawing techniques learned in class
- Use shape variation (geometric organic free form), form (two dimensional three dimensional), and texture (actual visual implied) inspired by Multidisciplinary Sculptor (2003-Present) Pauline Loctin
- Use pleating techniques (hand folding, machine folding, heat pressing, box pleats, inverted pleats) and design principles (composition, variation, balance) based on Paper Sculpture
- Define Nonrepresentational Art (a type of visual art that does not depict objects, people, or scenes from the real world)
Lesson One
Day One, Art Start
1. The Flow Of Emotional Numbness (2023) Pauline Loctin
2. Read Dreams by Ezra Jacks Keats
3. Discussion Questions "Are the colors placed throughout the artwork to create a visual balance? Does one square look too heavy? Are the varied shapes working well together? How do artists deconstruct and reconstruct artwork? How does the artist transform flat paper into three dimensional sculptural forms? What type of sensory experience and feelings do these forms convey? What color do you think would be fun to use if you were making artwork like the artist? How do you think the artist make a flat piece of paper stand up and keep shape? Did you know the artist was a musician who played the violin for a long time? Do you think learning music can help with making artwork? Do you think artists have create freedom when making artwork? What story do you think this piece of art is telling? If you had an unlimited supply of paper in any color, what amazing sculpture creation would you make?"
Lesson Activities
1. Choose 12" X 15" Drawing Paper
2. Draw three line types (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) as a line design for the abstract collages
3. Outline three line types (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) with black oil pastels for the Pauline Loctin Abstract Collages
Day Two, Art Start
1. Retrieve Pauline Loctin Abstract Collages for Assigned Tables
2. Chromatic Reflection (2023) Pauline Loctin
3. Discussion Questions "What does art mean to you? What ideas, concerns, or objects have motivated your work? How would you describe your artistic style? What is success or successful to you? Is there ea distinct mood? Does it make you think about anything? Does anything jump out at you? What did the artist say about the piece? How did you start out as an artist? When do you feel your best? Do you still struggle with comparison to other artists? If so, how are you able to move past this? What do your paintings reveal bout your personality? Where or how do you rediscover inspiration? Who is the artist shown above? What do you think the artist is thinking about when working on this sculpture? How do artists know when an artwork is complete? What do you think the origin of the titles say about the artwork? How do you think the artist feels about sculpture?"
Lesson Activities
1. Use drawing techniques (contour outline continuous) to add basic shapes (geometric organic free form) to the positive space (foreground) of the Pauline Loctin Abstract Collages
2. Use drawing techniques (contour outline continuous) to add basic shapes (geometric organic free form) to the negative space (background) of the Pauline Loctin Abstract Collages
3. Use drawing techniques (contour outline continuous) to add details (patterns texture designs) to the Pauline Loctin Abstract Collages
Day Three, Art Start
1. Retrieve Pauline Loctin Abstract Collages for Assigned Tables
2. Set Up Studio Area (glue sticks, scissors, construction paper)
Lesson Activities
1. Use complementary colors (red green, blue orange, yellow purple) to fill in the positive space (foreground, middle ground) of the Pauline Loctin Abstract Collages
2. Use complementary colors (red green, blue orange, yellow purple) to fill in the negative space (background) of the Pauline Loctin Abstract Collages
3. Add design details (pattern texture designs) to the positive space (foreground) of the Pauline Loctin Abstract Collages
Artist Examples 
Student Examples
Friday, October 17, 2025
TEACUP COLLAGES
Teacup Collages
Learning Targets
I can...
- Create an original Teacup Collages using drawing techniques learned in class
- Use shape variation (geometric, organic, free form), texture (actual, visual, implied), and space (positive, negative) inspired by American Painter (1844-1926) Mary Cassatt
- Use collage techniques (assemblage, mixed media, decoupage, photomontage) and design principles (rhythm, balance, contrast) based on Impressionism
- Define Still Life (a work of art depicting an arrangement of inanimate objects)
Lesson One
Day One, Art Start
1. Five O'Clock Tea (1880) Mary Cassatt
2. Read The Tea Party In The Woods by Akiko Miyakoshi
3. Discussion Questions "Did you know the tea industry dramatically changed the economics of several countries and altered global power still experienced today? How has tea shaped all aspects of society on a personal, national, and international levels? Can you see any visual cues about how these objects were traded? Can you infer any cultural influences that might have impacted these objects? Can you think of other art objects which might share similar cultural influences? What gave China power in the tea and porcelain trade initially? How did these countries have the upper hand at first? How did Britain try to shirt power in their favor? What did they do to take power in the tea industry? Can you more the British East India Company to any other modern day companies?"
Lesson Activities
1. Use neutral colors (black, white, grey) to add line types (contour, outline, gesture) to the positive space (foreground, teacup) of the Teacup Collages
2. Fill in the positive space (foreground, middle ground, teacup) with color combinations (warm colors, cool colors, neutral colors) for the Teacup Collages
3. Fill in the negative space (background) with color combinations (warm colors, cool colors, neutral colors) for the Teacup Collages
Day Two, Art Start
1. Retrieve Teacup Collages at Assigned Tables
2. The Cup Of Tea (1879) Mary Cassatt
3. Discussion Questions "What connections do the teacup and the saucer have to India? What connections can you make between the tea trade and colonization? What might be some of the lasting impacts of colonization on global power dynamics and the global economy? Do you think colonization could have had impacts on powers in other areas, besides just economics and trade? Where or how? Why might mathematicians, scientists, astronomers, or engineers choose to use art as a tool? What type of technique was used by the artist? What perspective do you think the artist was trying to get across? If this artwork is meant to persuade, what do you think the artist was trying to accomplish?"
Lesson Activities
1. Use neutral colors (black, white, grey) to fill in the positive space (foreground, middle ground, teacup) of the Teacup Collages
2. Fill in the positive space (teacup, foreground, middle ground) with color combinations (warm colors, cool colors, neutral colors) for the Teacup Collages
3. Fill in the negative space (background) with color combinations (warm colors, cool colors, neutral colors) for the Teacup Collages
Day Three, Art Start
1. Retrieve Teacup Collages at Assigned Tables
2. Set Up Studio Area (glue sticks, scissors, dollies, pencils)
Lesson Activities
1. Use color combinations (warm colors, cool colors, neutral colors) to fill in the positive space (teacup, foreground, middle ground) with pattern (stripes, polka dots, swirls) for the Teacup Collages
2. Use color combinations (warm colors, cool colors, neutral colors) to fill in the negative space (teacup, foreground, middle ground) with pattern (stripes, polka dots, swirls) for the Teacup Collages
3. Add highlights (reflective light, light source) and shadows (cast shadow, mid tones, shadows) to the Teacup Collages
Artist Examples
Student Examples
Wednesday, October 1, 2025
FALL COLLAGE CATS
Fall Collage Cats
Learning Targets
I can...
- Create an original Fall Collage Cats using drawing techniques learned in class
- Use color combinations (warm colors, cool colors, earth tones, neutral colors), shape variation (geometric, organic, free form), and texture (actual visual implied) inspired by French Artist (2008-Present) Angie Rozelaar
- Use collage techniques (arrangement, assemblage, mixed media) and design principles (emphasis, repetition, proportion) based on Contemporary Art
- Define Stamp (a design transferred from a carved or molded surface to another material by pressing with ink or paint)
Lesson One
Day One, Art Start
1. Bride Of Fur-ankenstein (2020) Angie Rozelaar
2. Read The Little Kitten (My Little Animal Friend) by Nicola Killen
3. Discussion Questions "Why are black cats considered bad luck? Where did this unfair superstation originate? Did you know black cats are stealthy, sneaky, and blend in with the night? Can you create a black cat with glowing eyes? How would you depict a black cat to represent good fortune and divine protection? How will you use color, composition, and other art elements to give your cat a mysterious or sinister look? How can you use color to show a black cat's fur using texture and form? What other colors, like dark purple or blue, might you incorporate? How will you make your black cat stand out from the background? How does your own perception of black cats influence the mood or personality of the artwork being created? What pose or facial expressions will you use to capture emotions (curiosity, contentment, aloofness)? What story or feeling would you like to communicate with your artwork? Are you celebrating the beauty of these animals or exploring their symbolic history?"
Lesson Activities
1. Choose 12 X 15 Drawing Paper
2. Use basic shapes (organic, organic, free form) to draw the recognizable parts (ears, tail, eyes, face) of the positive space (foreground, black cat) of the cat collages
3. Add feline parts (claws, teeth, tail, whiskers, nose) the recognizable parts (parts, tail, eyes, face) of the positive space (foreground, black cat) of the cat collages
Day Two, Art Start
1. Retrieve Fall Collage Cats for Assigned Tables
2. Falling For You (2022) Angie Rozelaar
3. Discussion Questions "Is the black cat playing trick or treat? Is the black cat hiding in the dark? Is the black cat stirring a cauldron? What is your black cat's personality like? Is it friendly, mischievous, or shy? What kind of special powers does your black cat have? What is your black cat's favorite thing to do on Halloween? Where is your cat going on Halloween? Where does your black cat live? Does the black cat live in a haunted house, a pumpkin patch, or a secret witch's den? What happened right before this picture was drawn, and what will happen next? Why do you think black cats are associated with Halloween? Why are black cats seen as spooky on Halloween? What is the superstition about a black cat crossing your path? Can you name any famous black cats?"
Lesson Activities
1. Add details (fangs, bat wings, white wig, costume) to the positive space (foreground, black cat) of the cat collages
2. Use neutral colors (black, grey, white, brown) for the positive space (foreground, black cat) of the cat collages
3. Use color combinations (cool colors, warm colors, earth tones) for the negative space (background, middle ground) of the cat collages
Day Three, Art Start
1. Retrieve Fall Collage Cats for Assigned Tables
2. Set Up Studio Area (oil pastels, speed ball ink, rollers, black paint)
Lesson Activities
1. Add highlights (reflective light, light source) and facial features (whiskers, heart nose, eyes) to the positive space (foreground, black cat) of the cat collages
2. Add shadows (reflective shadow, cast shadow) and patterns (swirls, dots, stripes) to the negative space (background) of the cat collages
3. Use color combinations (cool colors, warm colors, earth tones) to add patterns (dots, swirls, stripes) to the negative space (background) of the cat collages
Artist Examples 
Student Examples
Posts
