| Full lesson | Create for a teacher a set of content for giving a lesson, beginning with the lesson plan. Each new block of materials must begin with an H1 heading (other subheaders must be H2, H3, etc). When you describe required pictures, write those descriptions in curly brackets, for example: {A picture of a triangle} |
| Which subject | Art |
| What topic | Abstract expressionism during the Cold War |
| What length (min) | 50 |
| What age group | Doesn't matter |
| Class size | 6 |
| What curriculum | |
| Include full script | |
| Check previous homework | |
| Ask some students to presents their homework | |
| Add a physical break | |
| Add group activities | |
| Include homework | |
| Show correct answers | |
| Prepare slide templates | |
| Number of slides | 10 |
| Create fill-in cards for students | |
| Create creative backup tasks for unexpected moments |
Art
Abstract Expressionism during the Cold War
Varied (appropriate for all grades)
50 minutes
6
| Step Number | Step Title | Length | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Abstract Expressionism | 10 mins | Introduce the concept of Abstract Expressionism and its emergence during the Cold War. Show key slides with images of artworks. |
| 2 | Key Artists and Their Contributions | 10 mins | Discuss important figures such as Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Elizabeth Murray. Highlight their techniques and contributions. |
| 3 | Group Analysis of Artworks | 10 mins | Divide students into pairs, provide them with printed images of specific artworks, and guide them in discussing themes and techniques used. |
| 4 | Creating Abstract Art | 15 mins | Provide students with art supplies and encourage them to create their own abstract piece inspired by the themes discussed in class. |
| 5 | Reflection and Homework Assignment | 5 mins | Students will write a short reflection in their notebooks about what they learned. Assign homework: research and write about one Abstract Expressionist artist not covered in class. |
Wrap up the lesson by summarizing the key points discussed and reminding students of the homework assignment. Encourage them to think about how historical contexts influence art movements.
This lesson aligns with the national standards for visual arts education, emphasizing historical and cultural contexts in art.
"Good morning, everyone! Today, we are diving into an exciting art movement known as Abstract Expressionism. This movement emerged during a very pivotal time in history: the Cold War. It’s important to understand how the social and political climate influenced artists and their works.
Let’s start with our first slide. As I show you images of famous Abstract Expressionist artworks, I want you to take note of the feelings or thoughts they evoke in you. What do you see? What do you feel?
Take a look at this first piece. [Pause to ensure students are viewing the slide.] Can anyone share their thoughts? What stands out to you in this artwork?"
"Now that we have an understanding of the movement, let's talk about some key artists who defined Abstract Expressionism. We’ll focus on three important figures: Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Elizabeth Murray.
First, let’s discuss Jackson Pollock and his unique drip technique. [Switch to a slide showing Pollock’s work.] What do you notice about his style? Yes, the chaotic energy! Pollock believed in the power of spontaneous expression.
Next, let’s explore Mark Rothko. [Switch to a slide showing Rothko’s art.] Rothko often used large blocks of color to evoke emotion. What feelings do you think his work is trying to convey?
Lastly, we have Elizabeth Murray, who is known for her innovative, shaped canvases. [Show a slide with her artwork.] How does her work differ from the previous two?
Each artist has contributed significantly to the movement, using different techniques to express similar themes. Keep these artists in mind as we move to our next activity!"
"Now, it's time for some collaborative analysis. I will divide you into pairs, and each pair will receive printed images of specific artworks from different Abstract Expressionist artists.
Once you have your images, I want you to discuss the themes and techniques used in each artwork. Consider the following questions: What emotions does the artwork evoke? How do the colors and shapes contribute to your interpretation?
You will have 10 minutes for this discussion. Remember to take notes in your notebooks. I will be walking around to listen in and provide support if needed. Go ahead and get started!"
"Great job on your analysis, everyone! Now, it’s time for you to create your own abstract art piece inspired by the themes we discussed in class.
You will find art supplies at your tables: canvases or thick paper, acrylic paints, brushes, and palettes. I'd like you to reflect on what you've learned and create an artwork that expresses your personal feelings about the historical context of the Cold War and Abstract Expressionism.
Take 15 minutes for this activity. Let your creativity flow, and remember: there are no wrong answers in abstract art!
I’ll be around to provide feedback and inspiration as you work."
"Alright, artists! As we wrap up our lesson today, I want you to take a moment for reflection. In your notebooks, please write a short paragraph about what you've learned regarding Abstract Expressionism and its historical context.
Additionally, for homework, I would like you to choose one Abstract Expressionist artist that we didn’t cover in class. Research their biography and contributions, and write a brief report on what you learned.
We will discuss your findings in our next class, so make sure to bring it with you. Thank you all for your participation today! Remember to think about how the world around us influences artistic expression. Have a great day!"
| Slide number | Image | Slide content |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | {Image: A collage of famous Abstract Expressionist artworks} | - Introduction to Abstract Expressionism |
| - Emerged during the Cold War | ||
| - Influenced by social and political climate | ||
| 2 | {Image: Jackson Pollock's drip painting} | - Key Artist: Jackson Pollock |
| - Known for his drip technique | ||
| - Focus on spontaneous expression | ||
| 3 | {Image: Mark Rothko's color field painting} | - Key Artist: Mark Rothko |
| - Used large blocks of color | ||
| - Aimed to evoke deep emotion | ||
| 4 | {Image: Elizabeth Murray's shaped canvas} | - Key Artist: Elizabeth Murray |
| - Known for innovative shaped canvases | ||
| - Different techniques, but similar themes in expression | ||
| 5 | {Image: Students discussing artworks} | - Group analysis activity |
| - Pairs will discuss assigned Abstract Expressionist artworks | ||
| - Focus on themes, emotions, colors, and shapes | ||
| 6 | {Image: Art supplies on a table} | - Create your own abstract art piece |
| - Use themes discussed to express personal feelings | ||
| - Art supplies: canvases, acrylic paints, brushes | ||
| 7 | {Image: Students creating art} | - Artist activity in progress |
| - 15 minutes to create | ||
| - No wrong answers in abstract art | ||
| 8 | {Image: A notebook with a reflection prompt} | - Reflection activity |
| - Write a paragraph on what was learned about Abstract Expressionism | ||
| 9 | {Image: Homework assignment prompt} | - Homework assignment |
| - Research an unmentioned Abstract Expressionist artist | ||
| - Write a brief report on their biography and contributions | ||
| 10 | {Image: Inspirational quote about art} | - Final thoughts on the influence of the world on artistic expression |
| - Importance of participation and engagement | ||
| - Have a great day! |
How do you think the social and political climate of the Cold War influenced the themes found in Abstract Expressionist art?
If you could create your own drip painting like Jackson Pollock, what emotions would you want to express through the splatters and drips?
In what ways do you believe Mark Rothko's use of color affects the viewer’s emotional response to his artwork?
How might Elizabeth Murray's shaped canvases challenge traditional ideas about painting and what it can look like?
Reflecting on the artworks we've discussed, what common themes do you notice in Abstract Expressionism, and how might they relate to other modern art movements?