Abstract Expressionism

These are mixed media expressions made by 4th grade students.

In art class, we discussed abstract expressionism to be unrecognizable images (mostly color and shapes) used to show emotion or spirit. The Clyfford Still Museum teachers taught us how Abstract Expressionism can depict other ideas too, even common objects.

This lesson was originally taught to 4th grade, educating Colorado State Visual Art Standards:

4th Grade, Standard 2: Envision, Critique, Reflect. Grade Level Expectation: 2. Respond to an artist’s point of view being mindful of historical, contemporary and cultural context. Evidence outcome a. Recognize how the human experience is expressed in diverse ways.

This lesson is also aligned to the following standards for other grade levels:

Kindergarten, Standard 3. Invent and Discover to Create. Grade Level Expectation: 1. Investigate the properties of materials to support the planning and making of works of art. Evidence Outcome b. Describe intention for creating artwork.

First Grade, Standard 1. Observe and Learn to Comprehend. Grade Level Expectation: 1. Investigate how visual art and design tell the many stories of people, places or things. Evidence Outcome b. Identify how works of art express specific feelings using the language of visual art and design.

Second Grade, Standard 3. Invent and Discover to Create. Grade Level Expectation: 1. Plan and create works of art by exploring various media and creating meaning through symbolization.Grade Level Expectation c. Explain choices made in the art making process.

Third Grade, Standard 1. Observe and Learn to Comprehend. Grade Level Expectation: 1. Investigate works of art and design to recognize how to create meaning with purpose and intent. Evidence Outcome b. Use the language of visual art and design as a tool to help determine artistic intent.

Fifth Grade, Standard 3. Invent and Discover to Create. Grade Level Expectation: 2. Apply an understanding of art processes and studio skills to create works of art and design. Evidence Outcomes a. Utilize traditional and contemporary media to effectively communicate intended meaning.