1 year ago
Reinterpreting Guernica- Acrylic Painting Project
Sometimes, it is the role of the artist to make a political or social statement, as Picasso did in his creation of Guernica. Use the examples of details of Guernica to create a charcoal and acrylic version of your own. First, you’ll pick an issue that you want to address or imagery that you would like to represent. The image may be from real life or from a dream. Choose a subject that allows you to react against something that is dishonest, immoral, outrageous, or simply wrong that you have witnessed in the world, or that you think has taken place. Remember, Picasso’s style is passionate and filled with fury and horror. Interpret your ideas into a sketch that uses the same simplified, abstract shapes employed by Picasso.
Read more about Guernica here in this PBS document from the series,Treasures of the World.
Media: Black construction paper, white charcoal, white and black acrylic paint.
Size: 18 x 24 inches
1. Choose an issue or image that you wish to represent.
2. Using simple, abstract shapes similar to those used in Guernica, illustrate your idea on black paper using white charcoal.
3. Next, use white paint for the lightest tones. Mix a gray value for the medium tones. Leave the black of the paper for the darkest areas, or add black paint to the work.
4. You will notice that Picasso uses a lot of lines in his work. Once the paint is dry, use a Sharpie pen or charcoal to add lines back into the piece. You may want to use lines to outline basic shapes, or to add details such as facial features.
Rubric:
- The painting shows obvious evidence of thinking and care.
- It may address fairly complex visual and/or conceptual ideas.
- It has some sense of inventiveness and/or imagination.
- Materials are used well. Craftsmanship is strong. There is a strong balance of lights and darks.
- There may be evidence of experimentation and/or risk-taking.
- Composition is purposeful.
- It successfully addresses a topic in the spirit of Picasso’s Guernica.
