31 Days of Children's Books Inspired by Artists- DAY 5: Pollock

Title: Action Jackson
Estimated time: 30-45 minutes 
Project: Action Jackson Suncatcher
About the artist:(1912-1956) Pollock, and American painter, worked in a shed where he could lay out large canvases to sling and drip paint on them, he was not concerned about the space getting messy. He used large buckets of wall paint instead of small tubes. Instead of soft bristled paintbrushes he used stiff old brushes, twigs/branches and syringes. His art played an important part in the abstract expressionist movement.
Summary: Read Action Jackson, then study Pollock's work. Follow this lesson to create an artwork inspired by Jackson Pollock. There are two different types.
Objectives: Identify the elements of art (line, shape, form, space, value, texture and color), Understand and apply media, techniques, and processes, Understand the visual arts in relation to history and cultures.

Supplies for suncatcher (made with lid):

• Modge Podge or clear elmers glue works best
• Acrylic paints
• Paintbrush(es)
• Small plastic bowls
• Hole punch
• Yarn
• Sun (We had none today.)
• Box
• Plastic lid, we used one from out oatmeal canister

Supplies for suncatcher (made with wax paper):

• Modge Podge or Clear elmers glue
• Acrylic paints
• Paintbrush(es)
• Small plastic bowls
• Wax paper
• Scissors

Autumn rhythm: 1950, Convergence: 1952

Do you think Pollock's paintings should be considered art? Is this abstract or realistic? What colors do you see? How many layers do you think he made?

 

Pollock Suncatcher (made with lid):

1. Place lid with lip facing up to create a bowl on a covered surface. This is a great outdoor project, but can be done indoors if controlled.
2. Prepare your paints. Mix 2 parts modge podge (or glue) to 1 part acrylic paint.
3. Fill lid, just enough to cover the surface, with modge podge- no need to completely fill it.
4. Dip paintbrush into paint mixture and scoop out a generous amount and drip onto modge podge.
   
5. Let dry.
   
6. When dry you can take out of the lid, or leave inside lid if it's transparent. (Our's isn't completely dry yet.)
7. Poke a hole or use a hole punch to make a hole to tie yarn.
8. Voila! Hang our suncatcher and let the sun shine through- Action Jackson style.

Pollock Suncatcher (made with wax paper):

1. Place wax paper on a covered surface. This is a great outdoor project, but can be done indoors if controlled.
2. Prepare your paints. Mix 2 parts modge podge (or glue) to 1 part acrylic paint.
3. Dip paintbrush into paint mixture and scoop out a generous amount and drip/splatter onto modge podge.
   
4. Let dry.
5. When dry you can cut into any shape, or leave as is.
6. Apply tape to back and hang on window or punch a hole in it and tie a loop to hang.
7. Voila! Hang our suncatcher and let the sun shine through. Action Jackson style.
    
   I hope to get some better pics and update when it's sunny outside.

These images are suitable for children, please be aware when doing a search for artists you may find imagery that is not age appropriate. 

31 Children's Books Inspired by Artists