This project introduces children to the artist Piet Mondrian and teaches them about his use of the visual elements of shape, line and colour in his abstract art works. Children use his art as a starting point for their learning. His abstract style provides the inspiration for a range of art activities.

There are seven activities in this project. Each one builds on the pupil’s prior learning.

Activities include:

• exploring shape, line and colour in Mondrian’s work;
• exploring colour mixing processes;
• creating a digital abstract art composition; 
• developing a colour wheel using a collage technique; 
• making an abstract artwork using textile materials in primary colours; 
• creating an abstract painting; and
• planning, constructing and designing a three-dimensional Mondrian-inspired house.

The activities also aim to develop specific strands of the TS&PC framework. These are outlined in the learning intentions and success criteria. It is important to share these with the children. Each lesson lasts between 60 and 75 minutes. You may need to adjust the timings, depending on different factors such as class size or children’s previous experience using media or processes.

This project takes a look at the artist Claude Monet and teaches them about his use of the visual elements of shape, line and colour in his abstract art works. Children use his art as a starting point for their learning. His abstract style provides the inspiration for a range of art activities. 

This art project is an example of how a series of lessons could be developed for pupils at Key Stage 2. It is hoped that this project will help to illustrate what an informed approach to Art and Design at Key Stage 2 might look like. You will be able to see how the TS&PC underpin each lesson, and better understand how learning intentions and success criteria might be met through thoughtfully planned activities.

Activities include:

• looking at the work of a famous artist – Claude Monet;
• examining the subjects and methods he used;
• using observational skills to sketch a bridge in their local community.
• exploring and practicing a range of techniques using watercolour paints,
• using an appreciation of the work of Claude Monet as a stimulus for their own work.

The children’s thinking skills and personal capabilities will be developed through opportunities to:

• share opinions and engage in group discussion (Working with Others);
• carry out research (Managing Information);
• experiment with different techniques and processes (Being Creative); and
• organise and carry out tasks (Self-Management)