Expressionist Psychological Landscapes

Level: Middle School

Duration: Three 45-minute class periods

Historical Overview: German Expressionism and Max Beckmann (1884-1950)

Goals and Objectives: To introduce paint media and psychological use of figure

Vocabulary: Expressionism, acrylics, glazes

Materials: Acrylic paints, brushes, plastic containers

Procedures:

Day 1

1. Anticipatory Set: Show posters and books of different German Expressionism paintings.
2. Slide lecture on history of Expressionism.
3. Class discussion on artist Max Beckmann.
4. Review color wheel and use of black line.
5. Review vocabulary.
6. Demonstrate drawing a sketch using masking tape and covering areas of work and basic glazing techniques.
7. Have students create preliminary drawing with charcoals.

Day 2

1. Students set up palettes.
2. Students transfer sketch onto canvas.
3. Students paint.

Day 3

1. Students develop criteria.
2. Students pick best painting.
3. Students critique paintings.