Elementary

Artwork by Mikela S.

How can we incorporate 3D objects into a 2D drawing?

Students will choose a 3D object to incorporate into their 2D drawing.

sketchbooks, color media, pencils, 3D found objects

1. Students look at various artworks that illustrate how different artists use found objects in their drawings. Ask students why they believe the artists chose to create this way. Ask them to provide examples of objects one might use in a drawing like this. Then ask them to choose an object from home or from class to use for this assignment.
2. Students create three thumbnail sketches of their chosen subject matter interacting with their 3D object. Share tips and video clips to assist students in creating this illusion. Encourage them to focus on their subject matter with a simple, uncluttered background.
3. Students have peers critique their designs and take suggestions before transferring their design to their final paper.
4. Students draw out their design in pencil first and consider how they will illustrate their subject in a manner that shows interaction with the found object.
5. After they complete their pencil drawing, students select their choice of media. When the design is finished, students take a photograph and post their designs to our online virtual platform.

Students write an artist statement on their process and reflect on their use of design qualities to capture the uniqueness of illustration interacting with their found object.

Leigh Drake is an art teacher at Old Donation School in Virginia Beach, Virginia.