Unit 3: Advanced Painting & Mixed Media Topics: Material Synthesis
Duration of Days: 25
That artistic design choices are influenced by historical context, culture, identity, personal experience, and contemporary issues.
That material selection significantly defines the meaning, presentation, and impact of artwork.
That traditional and non-traditional materials each carry physical, symbolic, and conceptual implications.
That mixed media requires strategic planning, sequencing, and problem-solving due to varied material properties.
That presentation, curation, and revision are essential components of portfolio development.
That limitations within a medium can generate innovation and creative growth.
That the elements and principles of art guide cohesive design and visual impact.
That advanced studio practice includes research, ideation, critique, revision, and refinement.
Research and select an advanced painting or mixed media topic (Self-Selected Concept – SLC).
Develop a proposal outlining theme, materials, processes, and conceptual goals.
Experiment with both traditional (acrylic, oil, watercolor, pastel) and non-traditional materials (found objects, textiles, textured surfaces, collage elements).
Produce exploratory studies and material tests prior to final execution.
Create one or more sustained, portfolio-quality artworks demonstrating intentional material integration.
Engage in formal critique sessions using advanced visual art vocabulary.
Revise and refine work based on peer and instructor feedback.
Prepare artwork for presentation, including written artist statements and portfolio documentation.
Reflect on how material choices influence meaning and viewer interpretation.
Performance Task(s):
Students will complete a sustained mixed media painting project (or series) centered on a self-selected theme that demonstrates advanced material synthesis and conceptual depth.
Students will demonstrate:
Intentional integration of traditional and non-traditional materials.
Strong application of the elements and principles of art.
Evidence of research and thematic development.
Creative problem-solving when working with layered media.
Technical proficiency and craftsmanship.
Clear personal voice and conceptual clarity.
Professional presentation suitable for portfolio inclusion.