Free Lesson Plan: Surreal Landscapes with Acrylic Paints

Surreal Landscapes of the Mind – Acrylic Paints

Level: Middle School

Duration: Three 45-minute class periods

Historical Overview: Surreal Landscapes of Max Earnst

Goals and Objectives: To introduce experimental uses of paint media

Vocabulary: Surrealism, Landscape, acrylics, drip techniques, encaustic

Materials: Acrylic paints, brushes, plastic containers

Procedures:

Day 1

1. Anticipatory Set: Show posters and books of images of different Surrealism paintings.
2. Slide lecture on history of Surrealism.
3. Class discussion on artist Max Earnst.
4. Review vocabulary.
5. Demonstrate dripping and encaustic techniques.
6. 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.