Richard Ahnert: Mixed Media Animal/Human Portraits

Grade level: 4-8

Art form: Mixed Media, Drawing, Collage, Character Design

Lesson length time: Two Hours

Lesson Objective

Ever notice how certain animals have personalities? Why is it that a fox is considered sly, a crow is associated with death or a bunny with cuteness? What kinds of humans suit animal personalities? After looking at and discussing the anthropomorphic paintings of Toronto artist Richard Ahnert, students will create through drawing, painting and collaging, an animal/human character of their own.

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Materials

  • Pencil, eraser, ruler

  • Scissors

  • White glue or glue stick

  • Papers for sketching – A4 size or similar 

  • Sharpie or similar black marker

  • Any one colouring medium – markers / pencil crayons / watercolours / pastels

  • If using watercolours – then brushes, palette, and water cup required

  • Fashion or similar magazine with full size images of people (if available)

  • A4 size (or similar) plain cardstock or thick paper for final artwork (if available)

Learning Outcomes

Students will:

  • learn vocabulary of art techniques and practices (collage, drawing, proportion, crossed creatures)

  • explore elements of design (shape and form, space, line, colour, texture and value)

  • explore principles of design (balance, emphasis, harmony, movement, proportion, rhythm, unity, variety)

  • learn about a local artist and their art

  • have an opportunity to explore with materials and concepts

  • be encouraged to create art in a comfortable and supportive environment

  • apply critical thinking skills in their analysis of art work and creation of their own art work

 

Curriculum Connections

Visual Arts, Social Sciences and History, Science and Technology

All Programmes