Beacon Lesson Plan Library
Mondrian and Matisse: Combining Styles
Santa Rosa District Schools
Students create artwork using the pure elements of line, shape, and color as the subject matter. The artwork is then cut or torn into organic shapes which are then glued onto a background paper, leaving areas of paper showing in the composition.
The student uses two-dimensional and three-dimensional media, techniques, tools, and processes to communicate an idea or concept based on research, environment, personal experience, observation, or imagination.
The student uses tools, media, processes, and techniques proficiently, knowledgeably, and in a safe and responsible manner.
The student knows how the elements of art and the principles of design can be used to solve specific art problems.
The student applies various subjects, symbols, and ideas in works of art.
The student knows how the elements of art and the principles of design can be used and solves specific visual-art problems at a proficient level.
-Examples of artwork by both Piet Mondrian and Henri Matisse (see weblinks)
-Drawing materials such as markers, crayons, or pastels
-Scissors (not necessary if students are assigned to tear the shapes)
-Glue sticks ( I prefer glue sticks but bottled glue will work if used sparingly)
-"Art Production Criteria Checklist" (see Associted File)
-"Evaluation Checklist" ( see Associated File)
-"Art Criticism Worksheet" (see Associated File)
1. Gather information about Mondrian and Matisse. (see weblinks)
2. Have paper, materials, and tools ready. (see materials list)
3. Download and preview the "Art Production Criteria", the "Art Criticism Worksheet", and the "Evaluation Checklist" located in the Associated File. Make a copy for each student or have available for students to copy from overhead or board.
1. Introduce students to the work of Piet Mondrian by allowing them to view selected works while listening to some biographical information. Discuss pure abstraction as Mondrian utilized in his geometric compositions.
2. Have paper, markers, and rulers ready and assign students to create a work of art that fills the paper with a composition, using only line, shape and color as the subject matter.
3. Review the "Art Production Criteria" (see Associated File) that applies to the abstract drawing in the style of Mondrian.
4. Walk around and monitor the students progress, giving helpful hints and praise liberally.
5. Students should complete their compositions during the first day of the lesson.
6. On the following day, introduce students to the work of Henri Matisse by allowing them to view selected works while listening to some biographical information.
7. Discuss how Matisse cut or tore paper into shapes that he then composed into artworks.
8. Have the students complete an "Art Criticism Worksheet" (this can be individually written or orally in a group) that contrasts and compares the styles of Mondrian and Matisse. This is located in the Associated File.
9. Assign students to cut or tear their abstract drawings into organic shapes that they will compose and glue to a background paper.
10. Review the "Art Production Criteria" that applies to the finished collage. (see Associated File)
11. Review the Principles of Design such as balance and unity and encourage students to use both the elements and principles of design while composing their final artwork.
12. Continue to walk around and monitor students' progress while giving help when needed.
12. Evaluate the finished collage using the "Art Production Criteria Checklist" (see Associated File).
Each student should participate in the class discussion of both artists: Mondrian and Matisse as noted by teacher observation.
Each student should participate in writing or orally in the comparison of Mondrian and Matisse using the "Art Criticism Worksheet" located in the Associated File.
Each student should show mastery of the use of tools, techniques, and materials as noted by teacher observation.
Each student should complete the assigned collage in accordance to the art production criteria.
Students may complete a self-evaluation based upon the "Criteria Checklist" located in the Associated File if so desired. Evaluation of finished artwork is based upon the "Art Production Criteria Checklist" located in the Associated File.
This lesson may be assigned with a specific theme or idea to convey in the student's artwork, such as Matisse's work on the circus.
Web supplement for Mondrian and Matisse: Combining StylesMondrian
Web supplement for Mondrian and Matisse: Combining StylesMatisse