Art Lesson w/ Ms. Jennifer: Aaron Douglas Inspired Silhouette
About the Artist: Aaron Douglas was an African-American painter who was influential in the Harlem Renaissance 100 years ago. Sometimes called "the father of black American art," Douglas was interested in art early in his life. was born in Topeka, Kansas, on May 26, 1899. He was influenced by his mother, who painted with watercolors. He began his career with a book illustration, and was quickly in demand for more illustrations. He also taught at Fisk University for almost 30 years. His style was a combination of African, Egyptian, and Art Deco art styles. Most of his works feature bold, graphic silhouettes of people, fractured color planes, and harmonious color schemes.
Watch this short video about the life and legacy of Aaron Douglas:
His most famous work is a series of murals in four panels, each depicting a different part of the African-American history and lifestyle.
Art Creation Guidance
For today’s project idea, I would like you to think of an important moment in your life, in history, or in a story you admire.
Materials:
Pencil
Eraser
White paper
Straight edge & something to make a circle (I used a ruler and compass, but you can use whatever you have)
Something to color with: Paint or markers or crayons
Draw a simple silhouette of the main character you thought of from your memory or inspirational character or event.
Then add radiating circles and lines.
Last, use tints of one color to paint or color our drawing with concentric circles (like a target). To make tints with tempera paint, you would mix more or less white into your paint. To make tints with watercolor, use more water and less paint color. Use lighter and darker shades of crayon, colored pencil, or marker if you don’t wish to paint today.
For Doodlebugs Ages 2-5:
Let’s practice drawing circles and lines and using different shades of the color RED.
You will need paper and crayons or markers in a few colors of red and pink if you have them.
Start by drawing diagonal lines across your paper with red.
Next, draw a small circle.
Make a larger circle around it.
Now, try coloring some of the shapes you made with different shades of red and pink. Made shapes that touch each other different colors.
Yay! You did it! I can’t wait to see your creations!
Please don't forget to email your artwork to Jennifer@BlowingRockMuseum.org to be shared in our Youth Gallery. We will be printing selections of Youth Artwork submitted digitally, and framing them in our new Youth Gallery on the 2nd floor of BRAHM.
And if you find value in our mission to bring art enrichment to community students through programs such as Young at Art, please consider supporting BRAHM by donating or joining as a member.
Did you know that a membership at the FAMILY LEVEL ($75) and above gives you FREE access to our weekly youth art classes?