Elementary

Artwork by Marcus, grade five.

The Essential Question
What is a blind contour line drawing?

Objective
Students will create a blind contour line drawing of an animal of their choice.

Materials
sketchbooks, color media, pencils, reference photos of chosen animal

Procedures
1. Students look at various artworks that utilize the blind contour and contour line drawing techniques. Ask students to define what a contour line drawing is and what makes it unique. Then ask them why artists choose to create art this way.
2. Students choose an animal to draw and create thumbnail sketches for practice, first using the contour line drawing technique and then the blind contour line drawing technique. Ask students to analyze the difference between the two. Students then experiment with different compositions in their sketchbooks. Encourage students to focus on their chosen animal and to use a creative abstract design for their background.
3. Students take suggestions from peers as needed before converting their design onto their final paper.
4. Students first draw their design in pencil using the blind contour method. Students then fill in the background with an interesting abstract design.
5. Students add their choice of color media. They are encouraged to use black-and-white media for their animal, and color media for their background to show contrast in their composition.

Assessment
Students write a reflection on their drawing, their use of design qualities for their background, and their use of the contour and blind contour methods of drawing.

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