Inside Art

I would use Inside Art in a Middle Years art class. This website would benefit students because it provides a neat simulation activity which helps students learn how to view art in new ways. Students can explore different artists, paintings, styles, etc. Students also learn how to examine the reasons that the artist created the work, and thus, become critical viewers.

I would use this website as an introduction (set) into viewing and creating artwork. After completing the simulation, students would participate in an activity in which they used different colours and lines to express emotions. The teacher would give each student a piece of paper and some paint, and tell them to use colour and line to express the emotion or word that she said. For example, what do you think about when you hear the word friend? What colour is it? Is it a straight, rigid line, or a curvy, flexible one? Students would draw a variety of words/emotions and would then compare their interpretations with other students to determine how colour/line can be used to express oneself.

Finally, I would have students create their own works of art by painting a particular landscape that is important to them. Students would have to consider the use of colour, line, brushstrokes, etc. within their artwork.

Students will benefit from this website because it is a fun, interactive way to look at some different examples of artwork, and to learn more about different styles and techniques. In my middle school art class, I remember copying boards and boards of notes about these topics, but this website provides a WAY more interesting alternative, and will hopefully also get students inspired to create their own works of art!

Curriculum Connections: Grade 7 Arts Education: Visual Art