cool art projects for high school

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Online Color Charts in Your Next Art Project

Are you a novice artist in need of extra color theory practice? Do you have experience and need inspiration or skills brush-up? The use of online color charts is an excellent way to achieve these goals. Here are guidelines for online color charts to use in your next art project.

The Benefits of Using Colors Charts

Using a color chart is beneficial for much more than painting projects. Those who are working on mixed media art projects, using markers, pastels, colored pencils or any other color media benefit from the use of a color chart for mixing colors. These charts show you a myriad of information that’s beneficial to art projects including primary colors, secondary colors and tertiary colors. In addition to these colors, there are also various hues associated with them as well.

How to Use Color Charts

Using color charts depends on the art project on which you’re working. For example, if you’re working on a painting and would like to know what colors go together, color charts are an excellent resource. They’ll provide information regarding complimentary colors, which are those that are opposites on the color wheel. You’ll also learn about split-complimentary colors, which are the two colors flanking the sides of the complementary color. Then, there are triadic colors, which are any three colors that are on the color wheel and evenly spaced out. For those who are looking for an eye-catching color scheme, look for tetradic, double-complementary combinations. These are two colors and their compliments.

About Color Inspiration

Using a color wheel is an excellent source for color inspiration. We can pair colors with elements of nature, temperatures, mood, saturation, themes and a myriad of other qualities. When picking colors, try using different art movements or historical periods as inspiration for color to help guide your art project. Using a color chart is just the beginning when creating color inspiration.

Creating Color Tones

Otherwise referred to as saturation, creating tones in your art projects helps add drama, shading and effects. Using the color wheel enables you to determine which colors will benefit the most from using color tones, and the dramatic effects of shading on your art project. For example, instead of merely adding black to create tones, you may choose to deepen the tones with darker shades of the same color or using a complimentary color.

Thinking Beyond the Color Wheel

While the use of the color wheel helps you determine which colors go the best together, these are also often thought of preset color schemes. Therefore, when creating your art project, it’s a good idea to think beyond the wheel and look at colors that create dramatic effects. Do you want a monochromatic look? Would you rather develop a theme using color symbolism? What about developing a piece of art using contrasting colors that mix with triadic colors? As you can see, there are many options to consider when working on your next art project using an online color chart.

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43 Collaborative Art Projects That Bring Out Everyone’s Creative Side

When everyone gives a little, the results are pure magic!

Art is about expressing your individuality, but you can also make something pretty incredible when people pool their talents. Regardless of whether you are into painting, sculpture, doodling, or mosaics, there is truly something for everyone on this list. Some art ideas incorporate nature while others are messy enough to warrant a little outdoor time. These collaborative art projects work for kids, teens, and adults alike while providing results everyone can be proud of!

1. Embellish your thumbprints

Art projects like this one are so cute and simple yet so impressive! Each child simply makes a thumbprint on a small piece of paper, then turns it into a face with black marker. Finally, assemble them into a rainbow collage and frame the impressive results.

Learn more: @art.teacher.thats.me

2. Stack pom-poms into a tree

Yarn pom-poms are easy to make and are also an excellent way to use up scraps of yarn. Have each student contribute one or a few, then glue them to a Styrofoam form to make a sweet little tree.

Learn more: @clever_poppit_resources

3. Layer a drip mural

Kids will surely find Jen Stark’s colorful art exciting and inspiring. For this collaborative art project, have them each make their own “drip” piece, then layer them together for one big finished mural.

Learn more: @ktgigliottiwrites

4. Line the hall with tile silhouettes

Art project ideas that help beautify outdoor spaces are some of our favorites. This is also a cool way to commemorate a graduating class. Cut out wood silhouettes, then have students make colorful clay tiles to fill them.

Learn more: @msrobertsartroom

5. Paint with trains

What could be more fun than creating a collaborative art piece with toys? Let kids’ imaginations run wild while driving toy trains across piles of bright-colored paint on a large canvas.

Learn more: Play Trains

6. Cut out a cityscape

This collaborative project builds on individual city skylines that kids draw first. Then, they each choose their favorite building and add it to a larger cityscape.

Learn more: @msfordesclassroom

7. Collaborate on canvas

Let colorful patterns offset the letters of a word or phrase that’s meaningful to your students so it really pops off the page. Start by painting the letters, then let kids add the colors and patterns. Finish by fixing any edges where they’ve gone over the lines (because you know they will!).

Learn more: School Name Mural—Cassie Stephens

8. Fill a giant flower vase

Art ideas for middle school lessons often take inspiration from famous artists. Channel your students’ inner Vincent van Gogh and have them create a beautiful impressionist paper flower. Then cut out a large paper vase, attach it to a bulletin board or wall, and fill it with all the gorgeous blooms!

Learn more: Art at Becker Middle School

9. Illustrate the ABCs

First, have each student take a letter and draw or paint something to represent it. We especially love how this example incorporates students’ handprints and fingerprints.

Learn more: Cat Wright—Pinterest

10. Cover a wall with butterflies

These pretty butterflies will certainly inspire kids to dream higher. During this project, each student creates their own paper butterfly. Then, they are assembled to form a true flight of fancy!

Source: No Added Sugar

11. Paint with bouncy balls

Before getting started with this fun collaborative art project, set up a cardboard box with tall sides with either paper or canvases inside. Then set up different-colored paints in muffin tins so each color has its own slot. Finally, give your students balls that they can dip in the paint and drop onto the paper in the box. Be sure to do this project on a nice day since you’ll definitely want to keep this mess outside.

Learn more: School Time Snippets

12. Bring tiles together into one great work

Some art project ideas like this one will take some time and planning, but the end result will be worth it. Students choose a subject then break it down into individual canvases, each done in their own style. When it’s reassembled, you get magnificently unique artwork to display for years to come.

Learn more: Crestwood

13. Sculpt a ceramic tile mural

This type of collaborative art project requires a little more work, but the results are stunning. Choose a different theme for each class or year, and soon you’ll have an amazing collection on display.

Learn more: Deep Space Sparkle

14. Paint a river of rocks

Painted rocks are all the rage these days, but we love the way the students at Sharon Elementary are displaying their work. This river of painted rocks is everything that makes collaborative art so effective since it incorporates individual creativity into a harmonious whole.

Learn more: Scary Mommy

15. Paint a shower curtain

Be sure to check the weather forecast since you will definitely want to do this messy (but fun) project outside. Use heavy-duty twine to hang your shower curtain from a tree branch, then use some heavy rocks to weigh down the curtain. Finally, give your kids paint and paintbrushes and watch the creativity soar!

Learn more: Happy Toddler Playtime

16. Chain together paper hearts

What better way to show how united your students are than with a chain of connected hearts! Each kid decorates a paper strip and then they’re attached together to form big, bold hearts.

Learn more: Art With Mrs. Nguyen

17. Assemble an altered puzzle

Find an old puzzle at the thrift store—look for the kind meant for young kids, with 25 or 30 large pieces. Have each child customize a piece, then assemble them into one striking collaborative art piece.

Learn more: Melissa Shepherd—Pinterest

18. String up wall art

How cool is this? String art is making a comeback, and these big leaves are so fun for kids to create. Not allowed to make holes in the wall? Try using pushpins on a bulletin board instead.

Learn more: Small Hands Big Art

19. Soar off on unique feathered wings

Have each student create a paper feather using watercolors, then assemble them into wings. This makes for a terrific photo op!

Learn more: C.R.A.F.T.

20. Grow a paper forest

From a distance, the forest blends together, but when you get up close, every tree is unique. Make different styles of paper trees, then put them together for a walk in the woods!

Learn more: Painted Paper Art

21. Upcycle a plastic bottle cap mosaic

When students recycle their plastic bottles, have them save the caps in a separate container. Then, use them to create colorful mosaics, like this cheery frog. ( Get more craft projects made with recycled materials here. )

Learn more: Krokotak on YouTube

22. Doodle, doodle, doodle

Regardless of artistic ability, doodle projects provide the perfect opportunity for kids to just let themselves go. The real fun comes as they laugh and chatter while they work.

Learn more: Doodling—The Art of Education

23. Get inspired by nature

Art project ideas that also double as a science lesson are definitely on the top of our list! Get outside with your students and have them collect sticks, leaves, pine cones, and whatever else they come up with so they can arrange them collaboratively into a natural art piece.

Learn more: Here Come the Girls Blog

24. Fold your way to a paper crane mobile

Folding the traditional Japanese paper crane is a soothing activity, once you get the hang of it. Ancient legend promises peace and happiness to those who fold 1,000 of these paper birds. Your students don’t have to fold that many, but once they get going, they might surprise you!

Learn more: The Art of Education

25. Cook up pizza pillows

Sewing is a great skill for kids to learn, so these pizza pillows will be a great place to start. The nice thing about this collaborative art project is that every student can take their part of it home at the end of the year.

Learn more: Pizza Pillows—Cassie Stephens

26. Form a fascinating fish

Turn paper plates into fish scales and have each student decorate one. Use the scales to create a 3D fish (see how it’s done at the link below).

Learn more: Art Class With LMJ

27. Set up a weaving station

The concept is simple: a large picture frame wound with warp threads and a basket of yarn nearby. Teach kids the basics of weaving, and they’re off! This collaborative art project is a creative way to occupy kids who finish other activities early.

Learn more: McAuliffe Elementary

28. Team up to bedazzle a stool

Since a stool is not the same as a large canvas, this collaborative art project is best done in small groups. Have one or two students at a time paint a small section of the stool. Once the base layer is dry, decoupage some magazine cut-outs of words. Finally, have some older students neaten things up before calling it done!

Learn more: Art Is Basic

29. Go big with a weaving wall

Take weaving to a whole new level with chicken wire and fabric strips. This makes for a spectacular display down a long school hallway.

Learn more: Sara Eberhart/Instagram

30. Craft a paper quilt

In this collaborative mural, students cut out and bedeck a paper circle. Then they cut it into fourths and arrange it however they like on a square of paper. Assemble all the squares into a big quilt-like mural.

Learn more: Elements of the Art Room

31. Create a crayon mosaic

Art project ideas that recycle otherwise unusable objects are undoubtedly some of our favorites. Save all those stubby ends of crayons that no one wants to use and turn them into a vibrant mural. Remove the paper and trim them to the appropriate size with scissors, then glue them into place on your desired design.

Learn more: Rethink Crafts

32. Piece together a holiday tree

Everyone needs art ideas to implement in their classroom during the holiday season. Give each student a triangle in varying shades of green and let them decorate them to their liking. Be sure to include plenty of pom-poms, glitter, gems, markers, etc., so they can really personalize them. Finally, piece them all together to create a large triangular tree and add a star on the top and a stem on the bottom.

Learn more: Instagram/Teaching Poppets

33. Weave a collection of circle art

The secret to this stunning collaborative art project? Upcycled CDs! CD weaving is easy to learn and lots of fun to do. The result of the assembled pieces is sure to draw oohs and aahs.

Learn more: Make It a Wonderful Life

34. Roll along with paper coils

This collaborative art project is perfect for using up scraps of paper. Coil strips into tubes and glue down the ends. Then arrange them into whatever design your students fancy.

Learn more: Paper Coils—The Art of Education

35. Look up for decorated ceiling tiles

We love art ideas that help pep up an otherwise boring classroom ceiling. Take a note from this one that uses bright graphics to draw the eye toward the stellar artwork. Take the tiles down, flip them over, and work on the back (these are done in chalk and sealed with hairspray). Finally, put them back up when you’re done.

Learn more: Chalked Ceiling Tiles—Cassie Stephens

36. Show off with a street-art-inspired mural

Before beginning this collaborative art project, give your students an art history lesson on street artist ThankYouX . Kids customize their own cube, then all join together to make one amazing mural.

37. Pencil in a collaborative art display

Try this project at the end of the year when everyone’s pencils are worn down to nothing anyway. Kids will certainly love experimenting with different patterns and shapes. When they find one they like, glue the pencils into place.

Learn more: Christy Ferrell—Pinterest

38. Head outside with some sidewalk chalk

Kids learn to cooperate when they have to share a space to create their masterpiece. Fortunately, sidewalk chalk is pretty forgiving since mistakes are inevitable.

Learn more: Kid World Citizen

39. Go geometric with watercolors

Let students experiment with watercolors, then cut out and assemble geometric shapes (this teacher used a Cricut to simplify things).

Learn more: Karyl G.—Pinterest

40. Decorate and arrange craft sticks

Teachers will love this art project since you can get all the supplies you need at the dollar store. Each student paints a wooden craft stick, then they’re arranged into an eye-catching display.

Learn more: The Classy Teacher

41. Branch out in style

This collaborative art project is not just inspired by nature, it also incorporates nature into its design. Before beginning, find a long branch with an appealing shape. Have kids paint and decorate it, then display it in your classroom.

Learn more: Artbar

42. Decorate a spring wall

Experiment with some cool watercolor techniques to create the flower petals and oh-so-adorable creatures that bring this springtime wall to life. You can change the scope of the project based on how many kids you have working on this collaborative art project.

Learn more: Fun Littles

43. Make a shoebox mansion

Save all those Amazon boxes and put them to good use while creating a one-of-a-kind shoebox mansion. Give kids lots of options for paper, glue, Popsicle sticks, markers, etc., so they can personalize their own room in the mansion. Your students (and you) will have so much fun seeing it all come together!

Learn more: ArtBar

What are your favorite collaborative art projects to do in the classroom? Come and share your ideas in our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group  on Facebook.

Plus, get ideas for great auction art projects .

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High School Art Projects that Students LOVE!

Do you ever get “that” look from your high school students when you present a project to them? You know what I mean, the deer in the headlights look. Art projects need to challenge the students in design and technique while engaging their interests. This in itself can be challenging for an art teacher to tackle.

These four high school art projects have proven to be successful at challenging and engaging the students (you know the kids like a project when they ask if they can do it again!).

Beyond the Border

Medium: Watercolor & India Ink Project

Create a 2D mixed media art piece that explores the expansion of the main subject matter that is in the inner rectangle branching into  the border around it-going beyond the border. The main subject should remain in color, but everything else turns black & white outside the main rectangle… FULL Lesson

Ceramics Roll-A-Beast Animal Sculptures

Medium: Ceramics

Body Features determined by Rolling the Dice!

FUN, FUN, FUN!! Create a fantasy creature that has unique body features determined by rolling dice, then create the creature in ceramics.  After choosing 6 predetermined animal parts that you want to include in the project & assign each part to a number (ex:1=Wings/feathers, 2=fangs/tusks, 3=tentacles, 4=fins/scales, 5=fur, 6=horns/antlers/claws). Keep the list a surprise until everyone had a chance to roll the dice…  FULL Lesson

Motorcycle Mixed-Media Art Lesson High School

Creating dynamic compositions in high school art.

Providing interesting subject matter for planning & creating compositions is important for art teachers to do. I had envisioned doing this mixed media motorcycle art project for several years & was so grateful to find someone who was willing to bring their motorcycle up to our school so my high school students could draw it! I wanted something to really challenge & provide a super interesting subject to teach composition to my high school art class… FULL Lesson

Watercolor Pouring and Masking Portrait Art Lesson

Medium: Watercolors

Are you or your students super tight when it comes to painting? I know I am!! Trying to loosen up a “tight” painter is HARD to do-it takes practice, trial & error. This HS art painting lesson is a great exercise in loosening up and letting go of control. Students will review positive and negative space. The will use a photo editing program to transform a portrait to show high contrast values (black or white only). They will experiment with different watercolor techniques such as pouring, masking and splattering.

All of the lessons are accompanied by ART TECHNIQUE lessons-see my Shop for Lesson Plans & Worksheets

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10 Art Project Ideas For High School Students

Art is a form of expression that can communicate emotions, ideas, and stories in a powerful way. It is a creative outlet that allows individuals to explore their imaginations and communicate their unique perspectives. For high school students, art can be a valuable tool for developing critical thinking skills, fostering self-expression, and enhancing their overall educational experience. 

Since being good at art might be on most high schooler’s bucket list, hence, in this article, we will explore 10 art project ideas for high school students that are both engaging and educational. So, let’s dive in and discover how art can stimulate the mind and enrich the high school experience! 

Creative art project ideas for high school students

Here are some creative ideas for your next art project with hints on how to begin your work or utilize the same creative aspects for your art competitions or for summer programs .

1. Mixed Media Self-Portrait

 Create a self-portrait using mixed media such as paint, markers, and collage materials Begin with a drawing of yourself on canvas or paper. Then, add texture, color, and character to your self-portrait with paint, markers, and collage materials. Make a unique and intriguing mixed-media piece by combining various materials.

2. Recycled Sculpture

Design and create a sculpture using found or recycled  For your sculpture materials, collect found items such as cardboard, plastic bottles, and tin cans. Attach the items together with hot glue, wire, or other fasteners to create a one-of-a-kind, three-dimensional piece. Enhance the figure with paint or other materials

3. Landscape or Cityscape Painting

Paint a series of landscape or cityscape pieces inspired by your local environment. Go for a walk around your neighborhood and photograph intriguing landscapes or cityscapes. Make a sequence of paintings based on those photos. To catch the essence of the scene, play around with color and brushstrokes.

4. Digital Art

Experiment with digital art forms, such as digital painting or photo manipulation. Paint a series of landscape or cityscape pieces inspired by your local environment. Create a digital painting or manipulate a picture with digital art software or an app to create a one-of-a-kind piece of art. Experiment with various tools and methods to develop your own personal style.

5. Social Issue Art

 Create an art installation or mural around a social issue important to your school or community. Social Concern Create an art installation or mural to raise awareness of a social problem that is essential to you or your community. Use found items, paint, or other materials to create a piece that is both visually and emotionally impactful.

6. Printmaking

 Explore printmaking techniques, such as linocut, screen printing, or etching. Relief Printing is one of the techniques that involves carving a design into a block of wood, linoleum, or other materials, then rolling ink onto the raised surface and pressing it onto paper. Relief printing is a great technique for beginners and it can produce bold, graphic images with strong lines and textures.

7. Jewelry Design

Design and make your own jewelry using wire, beads, and other materials. Create your own one-of-a-kind jewelry items using wire, beads, and other materials. Experiment with various shapes and materials to develop your own personal style.

8. Story motion

 Create a stop-motion animation or short film using puppets or miniatures. Create a story and create puppets or miniatures to bring your characters to life with stop-motion animation. Capture each frame with a camera or smartphone, then edit the frames together into a short film using stop-motion animation software.

9. Watercolor techniques

Experiment with watercolor techniques, creating a series of abstract or representational pieces. Experiment with various watercolor methods such as wet-on-wet, dry brush, or lifting to create a series of abstract or representational pieces. To add depth and texture to your paintings, experiment with various colors and brushstrokes.

10. 3d collage and assemblage

Use found objects and mixed media to create a 3D collage or assemblage. Collect found items such as buttons, paper clips, and other small objects to use in a 3D collage or assemblage. Attach the items together with glue or other fasteners to create a one-of-a-kind, three-dimensional piece. Enhance the mosaic or assemblage with paint or other materials.

Art: Stimulating the high schooler’s mind and brain activity.

Art education in high schools is crucial for developing students’ creativity, critical thinking, communication, empathy, and self-esteem. It is a known fact that art opens the door to creativity for students! Yes, this makes stimulation in students’ minds and brains and offers space to express themselves through various mediums. 

Through art classes, students can learn to express themselves in new and innovative ways, explore different cultures and perspectives, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. 

Additionally, the process of creating art can be incredibly rewarding, helping students build confidence and self-esteem as they see their ideas come to life on paper or canvas. By encouraging high schoolers to engage with art, we can help them develop important life skills and prepare them for success both in their personal and professional lives.

Being a crucial life skill activity, art is not just a hobby, it is a valuable tool that can enhance high school students’ educational experiences in many ways. Choose any idea and start creating magic. Remember art is a self-expression not just a subject to explore.

Encouraging students to explore different mediums and techniques can help them discover their unique artistic voice and develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Art education not only enhances students’ critical thinking skills but also allows them to express their emotions and perspectives in a tangible and meaningful way.

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Art Activities for High School

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There are a wide variety of art activities for the creative teenager. Teens are well equipped to understand complex art concepts, yet still enjoy simple projects requiring an active imagination. Capture the spirit of artistry by inspiring personal expression through art.

Batik is a method of dyeing fabrics using the wax-resist method. This ancient tradition has roots in Indonesian culture. The artist uses wax to create a pattern on fabric before dyeing. The areas where the wax is applied will resist the fabric dye, and the process can be repeated several times with different colors of dye. The intricate nature of this process means it will take more than one day to complete a project and requires careful planning.

• Color Theory for Kids: Teaching Strategies and Project Ideas 
• Cotton reusable bags in light colors (you can use other fabrics as well)
• Fiber reactive, or cold water fabric dyes (some also require salt, see directions on dye for additional supplies)
• Batik wax (typically a mix of beeswax and paraffin wax)
• Electric wax pot (or similar tool used for heating wax)
• Tools for applying wax (various sized paint brushes, Tjanting tools , metal stamps or utensils like a potato masher)
• Large piece of cardboard, a fabric frame or hoop

Instructions

• Pre-wash and dry fabric according to manufacturer directions.
• Using pencil and paper, draw out design ideas. Be sure to avoid using tiny details and thin lines as they will be difficult to execute.
• Once the student chooses a design, have her decide on the color palette. Batik often features layers of colors and takes careful planning to ensure the final product is successful.
• Mark the pattern lightly in pencil on the bag.
• Heat wax according to package directions.
• Stretch and secure bag onto frame or piece of cardboard to help keep it taut and straight.
• Apply wax over pencil markings on the bag using appropriate tools to create the chosen design. Check to be sure wax is penetrating fabric before allowing to dry.
• Dye fabric according to package directions and allow to dry completely. For best results, apply the dye in colors from lightest to darkest. You can also paint the dye onto the fabric rather than dip-dying.
• To add additional colors, repeat steps four to nine.
• After you have allowed time for the dye to try, submerge the cloth in a pot of simmering water with a little detergent in it. The wax will come off the cloth and float to the top.

The finished product can be kept for personal use as wearable art, sold as a fundraiser item, or donated to a local nonprofit such as a public library or food pantry. Batik designs are unique because they incorporate individual creativity, but also because the waxing and dyeing processes are not precise.

Carved Animal Lantern

Throughout history and across cultures, animals have served as symbols for many things. Artists should choose an animal that represents aspects of their personalities for this project. Because of the use of clay, this project will take more than one day to complete.

• Modeling clay
• Clay (If a kiln is not available, opt for an air-drying clay . Be sure the clay used is not flammable)
• Cutting tools
• LED tea light candle
• Kiln and glaze optional
• Use the modeling clay to experiment with creating a three-dimensional animal shape. The cutting tools can then be used to create holes for light to escape. Be sure to leave an opening large enough to fit a tea light candle through.
• Once the model design has been successful, it is time to recreate the piece using the air drying clay. This clay will dry harder than the modeling clay and be more sturdy for a lasting project.
• Mold the shape of the chosen animal, ensuring it is hollow and 3-dimensional.
• Use the cutting tools to create the candle opening and holes where the light will shine through.
• Allow the lantern to dry completely (or use kiln) before inserting a tea light candle. LED candles are perfect for projects like this.

Natural Architect

Throughout history, different cultures have found ways to use natural materials to build structures. This project challenges artists to utilize materials such as rocks and mud to create a miniature building that is structurally sound. Fairy houses and structures make great examples of natural architecture and building.

• Natural materials such as rocks, mud, sticks, grass, maple syrup, honey
• Candy or clay molds in standard shapes like rectangle or square
• Cutting tools (scissors, utility knife, saw, etc.)
• Small piece of cardboard
• Pencil and paper
• Create a pencil drawing of the intended structure.
• Select natural materials to use, including a binding material to hold the structure together.
• Use molds to create structural items, such as bricks, if desired.
• Build the chosen structure upon the piece of cardboard using only natural materials.
• Allow your completed fairy house completely. It may be necessary to repeat the fourth and fifth step for more intricate details.
• If you want, you can decorate the base to mimic the landscape where you might find the chosen materials.

This project can be done on an individual basis or with a group effort in mind. Each artist could be responsible for one type of structure that is found in a village or city to create a complete scene when finished.

Stained Glass Story

The beautiful, intricate artistry of stained glass windows typically tell a story of some kind. This simple activity challenges artists to create a one-scene story translated through composition and color. While the materials may seem juvenile, the challenge is in developing a story and incorporating details by layering colors.

• Tissue paper in various colors
• Liquid starch
• Foam paint brushes
• Colored pencils and paper
• Brainstorm, then draw out a story that can be told in one scene using multiple colors.
• Cut a piece of wax paper to the desired size and shape. Lay flat on work surface.
• Cut tissue paper into geometric shapes.
• Lay out the chosen design onto the wax paper. Consider how layering different colors can create a new color and layering the same color can increase its intensity. Finalize the design and take note of the order for laying each layer.
• Paint a light layer of liquid starch onto the wax paper.
• Place the first layer of tissue paper onto the starched paper.
• Repeat steps five and six until all layers have been placed.
• Paint a final layer of starch over the tissue paper.
• Allow the art to dry completely before displaying in a window.

Those with access to more supplies and bigger budgets could create actual stained glass pieces using real glass and copper foil or lead.

Beyond the Body

Artists are challenged to create a self-portrait that doesn't include any figures representing the human form. The most challenging part of this project is imagining objects, numbers, colors and other abstract designs as representative of more concrete personality traits and people.

• Colored pencils
• Acrylic paints
• Paintbrushes
• Choose a famous person from the past or present. Research quotes from this individual and select two that represent the person's personality.
• Use these quotes to conceptualize a self-portrait of the person that does not include any part of the human form. You can include objects, shapes, numbers, animals and landscapes.
• Use colored pencils and paper to draw out ideas. Choose a final design.
• Apply acrylic paints to the canvas, creating the image you chose in the second step.
• Allow to dry and display with the quotes under the painting.

For added fun, challenge others to guess who inspired the portrait.

An Unexpected Perspective

What makes each artist unique is her perspective. While an artist has a view of the world, exploring alternative ways to process the world around you can be invaluable. This activity requires a look at the world from an unexpected viewpoint.

• Watercolor paints
• Paint brushes
• Choose an object, location, or person to use as inspiration. Consider the standard view of this inspiration, then choose another element and how its perspective might be different from the norm. For example, looking at a flower from the human perspective provides one picture while looking at it from the perspective of the dirt provides a different image.
• Decide upon an unexpected perspective and inspirational image.
• Using watercolors, create a picture on the paper.

The nature of watercolors will create a fantasy-like texture to bring out the interesting point of view.

Unconventional Materials Model

Many artists are known for their use of unconventional materials in creating stunning works of art. The use of materials not typically considered as art supplies can challenge an artist to explore both creativity and perspective.

• Found materials
• Choose a common object made from more than one material. It could be as simple as a soup can or as complex as a car.
• Examine the materials used to make up the chosen object. For example, a soup can is made from metal, paper, and ink.
• Look for unconventional materials with the same makeup as the chosen object. In the soup can example unconventional materials might include paper clips (metal), wood pulp (paper), and blueberry juice (ink).
• Decide whether to create a sculpture or 3-dimensional piece of wall art.
• Use the unconventional materials to recreate the original object chosen. In this example, an artist could sculpt a soup can shape out of paper clips held together by wood pulp with the word 'soup' written on the pulp in blueberry juice.

Layered Illustration

The use of common materials in a unique way is a current trend in popular art. Examples can be seen everywhere from galleries to television cartoons and children's books. One of the most common and expected art supplies is paper. This activity focuses on the creativity of each artist to create a unique piece using the same, standard materials.

• Variety of papers with different patterns and textures (graph paper, homemade, newspaper, old stamps, book pages)
• Foam brushes
• Thick weight paper (or card stock)
• Colored pens
• Leaf through a variety of papers, taking note of texture, pattern, and coloration. Choose a few materials to use.
• Using the paper materials as inspiration, brainstorm an illustration of a single scene that could appear in a book. For examples, students could use a favorite children's book or illustrated novel as inspiration.
• Manipulate the paper pieces and layer to create a template for the illustration.
• Lay the piece of thick weight paper on work surface and paint a layer of white glue.
• Apply paper pieces to the glue. Paint more white glue on top of this paper before adding the next layer.
• Once the glue has dried use markers or pens to draw in any additional elements needed to complete the illustration.

Creative Expression

Art activities are as unique as the person creating them. Whether using standard techniques and materials or unexpected supplies, encouraging creativity and personal expression are key.

7 Easy Art Lessons For When You’re in a Pinch

Sometimes lesson planning comes down to the wire. Maybe your students went through a project much faster than expected, or you simply did not have the time to get ahead of things. We’ve all been there. It’s not unheard of to scour the internet and social media for ideas, but sometimes we still come up short. No art teacher is perfect, and we all need a lesson idea in a pinch from time to time! We don’t want these activities to be fluff or busywork. Instead, we want them to help our students build skills and scaffold learning.

The next time you find yourself in need of a last-minute activity or lesson, look no further. The following seven activities are easily adaptable for various grade levels. They also require minimal material prep and use supplies you likely have in your art room.

1. Personal Soda Can Label

We live in a consumer world where new beverages, food, candy, and snacks are constantly introduced to the market. Teachers and students experience product and brand design —often without even realizing it. Looking at the typography and imagery of different products can spark interesting conversations with both elementary and secondary students.

One way for students to explore the idea of consumerism through product design and advertising is by creating a personal beverage label. This will require students to brainstorm a brand and identity for their product by picking the flavor, color, and overall look. Use the handout below  to get your students started planning their designs.

Once students have designed their labels, you can take this activity a step further by attaching the design to an aluminum can. Have students participate in a reflection or critique activity. Ending the activity here might be appropriate for your elementary students, but you could take it a step further for your middle and high schoolers. Have students use their aluminum can with a custom label for observational drawing. Beginning students often struggle with matching the text and typography on traditional soda cans. Using the label they initially created will help them build confidence in their drawing skills. After practicing observational drawing skills, students add shading to create the illusion of form. High school students can also explore more package design and advertising elements.

Suggested materials: Paper, drawing materials, aluminum cans (optional) Suggested grade levels: Elementary, middle school, high school

2. Crushed Soda Can Drawing

Another simple yet effective way to recycle aluminum cans in your classroom is to crush them and use them for observational drawing. When students learn to draw, they eagerly want to draw things as realistically as they can. Students often feel frustrated and disappointed when they aren’t able to draw things perfectly. One way to reduce the pressure of realistic drawing is to begin with an imperfect object. Crushing cans and spray painting them white can serve as a beautiful and cost-effective way to teach basic drawing skills.

Students can draw the cans from life or use a reference photo. If they use a reference photo, you could introduce your students to the traditional grid method or provide them with alternative ways of making a grid.

Cover the cans with white paint so students can focus on the simplified shapes without worrying about labels or text. Strong lighting can also help students to identify values easily. If you don’t have aluminum cans on hand but still want to try this activity, use these images as references .

To adapt this lesson and take it even further for your secondary students, explore new and advanced techniques to create a background with contrast and emphasis. Students research and experiment with a technique they have wanted to try. Provide them with a demonstration and sampling of some ideas to get them started.

Here are some exciting advanced techniques:

• Monoprinting
• Painted Paper Weaving FLEX Lesson (can be found in FLEX Curriculum )
• Paper marbling

Suggested materials: Paper, drawing materials, aluminum cans Suggested grade levels: Upper elementary, middle school, high school

3. Ashley Mary-Inspired Organic Shape Painting

Exploring abstract and non-objective art can be an empowering experience for students. However, sometimes the freedom to create can leave them paralyzed or push them to overwork their pieces. One way to introduce students to proper painting techniques while exploring color, pattern, and shape is to learn about the contemporary artist Ashley Mary . Mary’s playful paintings are reminiscent of the free-form collages of Matisse. Comparing Mary, a contemporary artist, with Matisse, a classical artist, can provide a foundation for inspiration and discussion. To learn more about Ashley Mary, download our complimentary FLEX Curriculum Artist Bio . Find this and many more artist bios in FLEX Curriculum .

Before students begin painting, have them choose a color scheme. Encourage students to work with a limited palette to push them to make more intentional color decisions. Students create shapes and patterns one paint layer at a time. If using watercolor, this can be a wonderful exploration of how transparent and translucent colors mix and layer. The free-form nature of this painting style also fosters intuitive thinking.

Suggested materials: Paper, acrylic or tempera paint, watercolor Suggested grade levels: Elementary, middle school

4. Water Droplet Drawing

If you are looking for a skill-building activity to boost your students’ confidence, this is it! Inspired by art teacher Jennifer Sell , this water droplet drawing activity is the perfect way to introduce students to shading and form at any age level. For best results, use a material that blends easily, like graphite, charcoal, chalk, or oil pastel. Use these videos to help guide your students as they navigate through the activity.

To adapt this for your advanced learners, students create the same drawing with two different media. Compare and contrast the process, medium characteristics, and end results.

Suggested materials: Paper, chalk, graphite, charcoal, or oil pastel Suggested grade levels: Upper elementary, middle school, high school

5. Textured Slump Mold Slab Bowl

Are you in need of a one-day clay activity that requires minimal materials? Creating slump molds is a great way to introduce or review making slabs with students. All you need is clay and a mold, like a bowl, to press the clay inside. This idea also can introduce surface texture on clay. Students roll a slab, add texture, then press into the slump mold. If you plan on doing more clay lessons with your students, this is a quick project for students to practice the glazing process.

Suggested materials: Clay, bowls for molds Suggested grade levels: Elementary, middle school

6. Op Art Drawing

Optical illusions are always exciting for students, and learning how to make them is even better! Some op art designs require more math and complexity, while others are on the simpler side. These op art sphere and cube designs are perfect as an introduction to your younger artists. Check out this video for a step-by-step guide to create them.

If you plan on doing more complex op art activities with your advanced or high school students, these simple drawings will make great bellringer prompts. Connect several spheres and cubes to create more elaborate patterns and compositions. For more op art lesson ideas, check out the Connecting Op Art and Math in FLEX Collection.

For a brief introduction to op art that you can share with your students, check out the FLEX video below:

Suggested materials: Pencil, markers, ruler, paper Suggested grade levels: Elementary, middle school, high school

7. Color Mixing Lines

The process of color mixing never ceases to amaze students, no matter how many times they have experienced it. This activity allows students to observe color mixing and explore creative drawing processes.

To start this project, students use a water-based marker or watercolor paint. If students use markers, create shapes of color right next to or slightly overlapping each other. Prep an eyedropper filled with water or a paintbrush dipped in clean water. Stand the painting up vertically and carefully drop water on the paper. Watch as the water mixes with the color and drips down the page together.

Use the same method with watercolor paint with a wet-on-wet technique by painting the paper with water first. Add color with the paper held vertically.

Once the paint drips are dry, students identify the positive and negative shapes created by the drips. Students can trace the shapes and fill in designated areas with line patterns.

Suggested materials: Water, watercolor, markers, paper Suggested grade levels: Elementary, middle school

Alexander Graham Bell said, “Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.” With all that art teachers have to do daily, we understand the importance of preparation. However, there are only so many hours in the day, and sometimes we don’t have enough time to get it all done! If you find yourself behind, overwhelmed, or stuck, try one of these activities. They are sure to engage students from start to finish, adaptable for all grade levels, and you can easily tie them into your existing curriculum when you’re in a pinch.

What’s your go-to lesson when you are in a pinch?

How do you prep in advance for a last-minute activity?

Magazine articles and podcasts are opinions of professional education contributors and do not necessarily represent the position of the Art of Education University (AOEU) or its academic offerings. Contributors use terms in the way they are most often talked about in the scope of their educational experiences.

Abby Schukei

Abby Schukei, a middle school art educator and AOEU’s Social Media Manager, is a former AOEU Writer. She focuses on creating meaningful experiences for her students through technology integration, innovation, and creativity.

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19 amazing art ideas for high school students.

he Student Art Guide is on the lookout for the best high school art teacher blogs, social media profiles and art education websites. Below is a list of the gems we have found.

The best art teacher blogs and personal websites

Developing nicely.

Developing Nicely  is a stunning blog by Chris Francis, UK Art teacher and Senior Leader at St Peter’s Catholic School, Bournemouth, England. The blog contains thought-provoking articles that are illustrated with creative, contemporary student artwork, such as the examples shown below by Beth. The site is a rich resource for GCSE and A Level Photography students in particular (these are qualifications studied by high school students in the UK) and is guaranteed to keep you engaged for hours. Highly recommended.

Julia Stubbs

Julia Stubbs  is an Advanced Skills Teacher in Art and Design at William de Ferrers School, Essex, England. Her website features high quality OCR GCSE and A Level Art artwork, photographed comprehensively and listed with results. Exemplar material is available, as are teaching resources. The action paintings below are from Martin Reynolds’ Grade A, A2 Fine Art project. More of Martin’s project can be viewed  here .

Ms. King’s AP Studio Art class

The website by AP Studio teacher Carrie King contains a superb collection of  teaching activities  for the Art students at Mt. Eden High school, Hayward, California, USA. The activities cover perspective, line drawing, the depiction of glass and metal objects, working in monochrome, figure drawing and still life arrangements; providing structured activities to help students complete the 12 AP Breadth pieces. Each assignment is accompanied by artwork from Carrie’s own students, such as the two examples below by Tiernan Kang (left) and Sikai Song.

The Artist And I

Feeda is an experienced high school art teacher, working at Tanarata International Schools, Kajang, Malaysia. Feeda’s students have achieved outstanding success, including Top in Malaysia for Cambridge IGCSE Art and Design, three years in a row.  Feeda’s blog  documents these projects, making them valuable learning opportunities for others. The image below is from a project that was awarded Top in Malaysia in 2016. More of this project can be viewed  here .

Bolton School (Girls’ Division) Art Department Blog

Mrs Crowther’s blog  contains artwork from Bolton School, United Kingdom. It features A Level and GCSE artwork as well as projects by younger students. A Year 10 Art lesson from Bolton School is included within our article about  use of mixed media for painting students . The example below is from a  GCSE Art project .

Bartelart.com

Bartelart.com  is the home of Dr. Marvin Bartel, who has many decades of teaching experience, including over 30 years teaching in the Art Department at Goshen College, Indiana, United States. Marvin has Master and Doctor degrees in art education and is a consultant, lecturer and writer. His website contains superb essays about drawing, creativity and teaching art: many interconnected pages that will engage you for hours.

Photography Project

Photography Project  was created by UK Photography teacher Liam Smith and his students. The website contains tips and advice for GCSE and A Level Photography students, as well as examples of projects that were awarded high results. The image below captures a tintype image upon a broken mirror and is part of an 100%  A Level Photography project  exploring Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Dan China  is a secondary school Art Adviser with a wealth of experience. His past roles include Ofsted Inspector and Chief Moderator / Examiner. He has worked on curriculum and assessment developments as well as revisions to examinations and assessment strategy. He has published a fantastic collection of student artwork Flickr, depicting some of the best A Level student work from Buckinghamshire schools (2007 – 2011).

Art Teacher Social Media Profiles to Follow

Ferhan khan’s flickr.

Ferhan Khan  is an experienced high school Photography teacher from Doha College, Qatar. He has uploaded many outstanding A Level Photography and Art portfolios. These are shared in their entirety, with legible annotation and process documented, making these excellent learning tools. Students investigate exciting subject matter, explore contemporary editing techniques and stage innovative compositions, as shown in the work below by Beth Miseroy below. Some of the work by Ferhan’s has been featured on the Student Art Guide, such as Kareem Al Saady’s  100% AS Photography Coursework project .

Monks’ Dyke Technology College’s Flickr

The Monks’ Dyke Technology College, which was in Lincolnshire, England, published a range of beautiful GCSE and A Level Art sketchbooks and final pieces from their Art Department (such as the A Level Fine Art sketchbook page below) on Flickr, with some exceptional Graphic Design, Fine Art and Photography submissions.

Fortismere Art Department Flickr

Fortismere, a secondary school based in North London, UK, has a thriving Art Department.  Their  Flickr gallery  contains an extensive collection of images, including A Level Photography, A Level Fine Art etc.

Sixth Form College Farnborough’s Instagram

This great  Instagram profile  has frequent posting of A Level artwork. This mixed media example is by A Level Art student George Punter.

Websites for teachers of high school art and photography

Photo pedagogy.

Photo Pedagogy  is a website for high school photography teachers. It contains a comprehensive set of teaching resources, covering a wide range of topics, such as ‘threshold concepts’ and photo literacy. Photo Pedagogy was created by UK high school teachers and contains a collection of highly detailed photography lessons, many of which are accompanied by student examples. The images below are details from student responses to an  abstract forms lesson .

Lectures on Digital Photography by Marc Levoy

Marc Levoy  taught digital photography at Stanford for many years and now leads a team at Google. He has  uploaded every lecture  and made this freely available. The 18 lecture course is targeted at beginners and covers: lenses, optics, light, sensors, natural optical effects, perspective, depth of field, sampling, noise, image processing, editing, computational photography, history, famous photographers and composition. There is hours of footage, which includes include assignments for students. Videos are also available on Marc’s YouTube channel, with a full playlist of the lectures available  here .

InThinking Visual Arts by Heather McReynolds

InThinking Visual Arts  is a website for International Baccalaureate Art teachers by Heather McReynolds, who has over 20 years of teaching and examining experience. Heather was previously Head of Art at the International School of Florence and now offers training and workshops for IB Art teachers, writes textbooks and shares knowledge via the InThinking Visual Arts website. Although this site is subscription based, there is enough free content to keep you busy for hours. Much of the material is relevant for teachers of any high school Art qualification. The image below is by Enrico Giori who has his  IB Visual Art project  featured on both the InThinking and the Student Art Guide.

AP Central Collegeboard website

Advanced Placement (AP) is a rigorous high school qualification offered to students in Canada and The United States. The College Board AP Central website has three great Art sections:  Drawing ,  2D Design  and  3D Design , which each include a link called ‘Drawing Portfolio with Student Samples and Scoring Guidelines’. These provide access to an excellent collection of student work (such as the beautiful fruit drawings pictured below by  Sucha Chantaprasopsuk  from Reavis High School), each accompanied by clear explanations for the marks they have received.

Top Art exhibition

The  Top Art exhibition  features some of the best NCEA Level 3 Photography, Design, Printmaking, Sculpture and Painting (this is the New Zealand equivalent of A2 Art & Design) produced by Year 13 New Zealand high school art students. An excellent source of inspiration for students and teachers.

Some Top Art students have been featured on the Student Art Guide, including work by  Bronte Heron  and  Grace Pickford  (work shown below).

NZQA website

The  New Zealand Qualification Authority  (NZQA) publish fantastic resources to help high school art teachers and students. Of particular note are the exemplar material that is provided for Painting, Photography, Design, Sculpture or Printmaking. This student work is very similar to that which is required for A Level Art & Design and is a fantastic resource for high school Art students studying any qualification. Work of a range of ability levels is shown, along with superb annotation from the examiners. There is also a separate section of Scholarship exemplars (such as the superb example below) – the very best work from Year 13 high school students.

The Saatchi Gallery art prizes for schools

The Saatchi Gallery, London, runs major art competitions for high school students, as part of its education program. The winning and short-listed entries are available for viewing on their  website . Although only single artworks are exhibited from each student (as opposed to the complete bodies of work) the range and quality of work is excellent, making this website a great place for those seeking inspiration. The image below shows a shortlisted artwork by Libby Gervais, Churcher’s College, Petersfield, United Kingdom (image credit:  Petersfield Post ). You may also be interested in our collection of  art competitions for high school students .

Teaching High School Art Lessons

Home » Teaching High School Art Lessons

More Learning Levels

Kindergarten to Grade 2

Grades 6-8 (Middle School)

Grades 9-12 (High School and Adults)

Teaching Art to High School Students (14+yrs)

High School students should be given the opportunity to work with a variety of art materials. Often, they will be interested in creating art with a message, or for a cause (political or otherwise). This should be encouraged.

Grade 9, 10 and 11 Emphasis:

• Art theory as it relates to artists and art movements of the past and present.
• Analyze how technical and aesthetic elements contribute to the ideas communicated in works of art.
• State preferences for works of art based on detailed analysis.
• Describe how a society or culture influences the arts.
• Create art by selecting and using elements of art and technical skills to achieve a desired effect.
• Analyze works of art.
• Explore areas of artistic interest in greater depth as they develop their own critical and problem solving skills.
• Use a variety of materials to create art.
• Explore, challenge, express and develop ideas using the skills and techniques they have learned.
• Establish self-esteem and self-confidence.
• Sharpen intuitive abilities.
• Expand aesthetic awareness and develop aesthetic judgement.
• Continue exposure to art history. Analyze a work of art by comparing it to another from a different time or culture.
• Discuss elements of art and principles of design while identifying aspects that contribute to the effectiveness of art.
• Use personal and cultural experiences as subject matter.
• Describe the benefits of gaining skills in the arts.

>>Click HERE for our list of High School Art Lessons<<

Favourite art lessons for high school.

• Classic Still Life Drawing
• Creative Principles and Elements of Art
• Face Study (Draw the Other Half)
• Gesture Drawing
• Happy Accident Painting
• Iterating Fractals
• Line Painting Flowers
• Mixed Media Still Life Painting
• Monoprinting with Gelli Arts
• Norval Morrisseau X-Ray Painting
• Pen and Ink Drawing
• Positive/Negative Bugs
• Still Life Mat Board Masterpieces
• Tissue Paper Collage Flowers
• Tissue Paper Landscapes
• Viewfinder Painting
• Wandering Ink Drawing Exercise

>>>MORE

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