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Abstract Expressionism Exploration

Ciara McNearly

Tier 1
For Schools

Lesson Plan

Abstract Expressionism Exploration

Explore Abstract Expressionism

Students will dive into the world of Abstract Expressionism by exploring famous artists and creating their own artwork. This lesson encourages creativity and self-expression, and helps students appreciate different art styles while developing their own unique artistic voice.

Audience

Teens (13-18)

Time

45 mins

Approach

Explore Abstract Expressionism

Materials

Large paper or canvas, Acrylic paints, Paintbrushes, Palette knives, Aprons, and Discussion Questions

Step 1

Introduction to Abstract Expressionism

10 mins

  • Briefly explain what Abstract Expressionism is
  • Discuss its characteristics: spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation
  • Mention a few notable artists such as Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Willem de Kooning
  • Show a few examples of Abstract Expressionist works

Step 2

Group Discussion

10 mins

  • Use the provided discussion questions to facilitate a conversation about Abstract Expressionism
  • Encourage students to share their thoughts and impressions
  • Discuss how Abstract Expressionism differs from other art styles

Step 3

Creating Abstract Art

20 mins

  • Provide students with materials: large paper or canvas, acrylic paints, paintbrushes, and palette knives
  • Encourage them to create their own Abstract Expressionist piece
  • Remind them that the focus is on personal expression and not on creating a specific image

Step 4

Gallery Walk and Reflection

5 mins

  • Once students finish their artwork, display all pieces in a makeshift gallery
  • Have students walk around and observe each other's work
  • Facilitate a brief reflection on what they created and how it felt to engage in this form of art
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Discussion

Abstract Expressionism Discussion

Discussion questions to facilitate a conversation about Abstract Expressionism, encouraging students to think critically about the art style and its impact.

What did you notice about the Abstract Expressionist works we looked at?

Encourage students to discuss the colors, shapes, and emotions evoked by the artworks.







How is Abstract Expressionism different from other art styles you know?

Guide students to think about the lack of recognizable subjects and the emphasis on emotion and spontaneity.







Do you think it's important for art to have a clear subject or message? Why or why not?

Foster a debate on the value of abstract art versus more traditional, representational art.







How did it feel to create your own abstract art?

Encourage students to reflect on their own creative process and the emotions they experienced.







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Reading

Introduction to Abstract Expressionism

A brief handout introducing Abstract Expressionism, its key characteristics, and notable artists, to provide context for the lesson.

Introduction to Abstract Expressionism

Abstract Expressionism is an art movement that emerged in the 1940s and 1950s in America, known for its emphasis on spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation. It was the first specifically American movement to achieve international influence and put New York City at the center of the western art world.

Key Characteristics:

  • Spontaneity and Automatism: Artists often created works in a free and unplanned manner, embracing randomness and chance.
  • Emphasis on Process: The act of painting itself was often more important than the finished product.
  • Large Scale: Many Abstract Expressionist works are on a large scale, enveloping the viewer.
  • Emotional Intensity: The works often aim to express profound emotions and personal experiences.

Notable Artists:

  • Jackson Pollock: Known for his drip paintings, where he would pour and splash paint onto a canvas laid on the floor.
  • Mark Rothko: Famous for his large, color field paintings with bands or rectangles of color.
  • Willem de Kooning: Recognized for his energetic and dynamic brushwork.

Abstract Expressionism marked a shift in the art world, challenging traditional norms and encouraging a new form of self-expression and creativity.

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