Printmaking

 

Activity: 

Students learned about the pop artist Andy Warhol and learned how repetition and bold color are key elements in his iconic style. Inspired by his floral prints, students began by drawing four different flower designs on small square pieces of paper. Each drawing was then transferred onto a piece of Styrofoam by placing the paper on top and pressing firmly, leaving and indented design. Using paint rollers, students coated their foam prints with vibrant pain and carefully pressed them onto blank sheets of paper to create a series of colorful prints. Once all four prints were completed, they were glued onto a larger piece of construction paper in a grid pattern, mimicking Warhol's repetitive layout. Students finished the project by signing their name in the corner. 

Extension Activity: 

I would have the students do a Pop Art Portrait or Object Series. We would build on Warhol's use of everyday subjects and repetition and students would choose a personal object (favorite toy, snack, or symbol) or even a self-portrait to turn into a new Styrofoam print. They would then repeat the design using different color combinations to explore how color affects mood and visual impact - just like Warhol did. To add in subjects like history and language arts, students could write a short artist statement explaining their subject choice, color decisions, and how their piece reflects the pop art style.