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This summer term our theme has been abstract art, we have explored how different artists use the formal elements of art in very different ways. We have discussed the design principles of movement, contrast and balance and explored how to use them in our own artworks. Our first artist was Brice Marden who is famous for his large abstract artworks using flowing, painted lines. In contrast we looked at the very static art of Piet Mondrian who created balance with rigid grids of flat primary coloured squares and rectangles.  

We explored Hilma af Klint’s use of subtle, muted coloured organic shapes. For our more extended study, we looked at William T. Williams’ bold, dynamic abstract paintings. His work is inspired by Jazz music and features lots of geometric shapes, lines and sharp angles with flat, saturated colour.  

Students had to make  compositional choices considering the design principles of movement, contrast and balance. They also focused on mixing consistent colour shades and achieving better brush control so they could paint precise lines and edges.

Lou – Art Teacher