Abstract Expressionist Collages inspired by Wassily Kandinsky and

the art of musicUnit Overview:

As a class we will learn and discuss the basics of abstract expressionism, focusing on Kandinsky’s artwork and the musical arts. You will then create a non-representational, abstract collage inspired by a piece of music, or specific sound, using a variety of provided materials and media. Together we will study how emotion and mood can be interpreted through sound, shape, color, and line, allowing each of you to be individually engaged in the representation of self.

Provided Materials:- One 11 inch by 14 inch sheet of black poster board- Tissue paper in assorted colors- Scrapbook paper in assorted patterns- Pipe cleaners- Feathers- Felt fabric - Acrylic paint- Colored construction paper- Glue- Scissors

Kandinsky, “Contrasting Sounds”, 1924

Important to remember:

The elements and principles of art are the subject for your collage

(focus on line, shape, and color)

Incorporate both geometric and organic/free form shapes

Think about colors and what emotions can be represented through

the use of color

2/9 Mon- notes on Kandinsky, abstract expressionism, and gallery critique questions

2/10 Tues- finish gallery critique questions and begin constructing your collage. No paint today,

only collaged materials!

2/11 Wed- paint application day

2/12 Thurs- final day of collaging

2/13 Fri- artist statements

Schedule:

Step by Step:

1. Choose a song, or specific sound/noise, that you want to use as the inspiration for your collage.

2. Write down on the bottom of this sheet some emotions that you feel when listening to this song or hearing this sound/noise.

3. Brainstorm different types of line and color ideas (color harmonies) that could help to portray these emotions in your collage (refer back to Monday’s notes).

4. Once you have the song lyrics in your head or are thinking of the specific sound, close your eyes (just do it). What shapes and colors are you imagining as you listen? Write them down.

5. Begin constructing your abstract collage while keeping in mind the emotions you are trying to portray through the use of the elements and principles of art. (Refer back to your elements and principles of art handout from week one often, it will help you!)