Piet Mondrian Primary Color Collage
Piet Mondrian's work is beautiful. The simplicity of line and color is so relatable to our tiniest of humans. Clearly there is much to be gleaned from his work: line (vertical, horizontal), primary colors, shape (square, rectangle), and space. I've taught variations of this lesson since 2007. It is in no way original to me, but here’s my go-to process which yields success from my tiny humans every time!
Materials:
+ white construction paper, cut to 10"x15"
+ black construction paper, cut to 4.5"x18"
+ red, yellow, and blue construction paper, cut to 4.5"x6"
+ glue and scissors
When students first come in to class we sit on the carpet and learn about Mondrian. After a few facts I have them tell me what they see in his artwork- color, line, shapes. We break down that conversation into the specifics of line and color. We practice making vertical and horizontal lines in the air with our pointer fingers and I introduce primary colors. Now we're ready for the demo.
Step 1: Vertical and Horizontal lines
I demonstrate how I cut the long black paper into thin strips. I size the paper to my liking a use a thin line of glue to attach it to my white background. The black paper may hang off the edge, but no big deal! I can cut it now or cut it later. Whatevs. I keep alternating black paper to create rectangles and squares. We practice our vertical and horizontal lines once more before going to our tables. The tinies then set off to work!
Step 2: Adding the Primary Colors
I bring the kiddos back to the extra table for another demo. It's time to fill in some of my squares and rectangles. The construction paper is larger than their spaces and I show them how to cut out a piece. If it's too small? No big deal! Cut another piece and fill in the rest of the space. Simple? You betcha. Get crackin' kiddos!
When they're finished they have to throw away their trash, put away their supplies, and bring their artwork to the drying rack. Fifteen minutes or so separate the first and final artists so the early finishers wash their hands and have some free time. This project takes one one-hour class period, so you'll probably need to halve it for normal class periods. Each piece is so unique and fun! I really do love the way they all come out. Happy making!
