Color Theory Art Lesson Color Mixing Paintbrush Element of Art Color Art Project

This Color Theory Paintbrush Art Lesson helps students in Grades 4 to 7 explore and apply core color theory concepts through a creative drawing project. Students sketch a giant paintbrush and use colored pencils or pencil crayons to build a full color spectrum inside the bristles, including primary colors, secondary colors, tints and shades.

Along with the 16-slide step-by-step drawing tutorial, students look at how artists use color with purpose, complete a read and respond activity, and write a creative writing prompt where they imagine a color no one has ever seen before. The lesson combines visual art, ELA, creative thinking and color theory vocabulary, and it works for classrooms and homeschoolers with minimal mess and prep.

WHAT'S INCLUDED (NON-EDITABLE)

• 2-Page Lesson Plan with objectives, materials and steps
• Step-by-Step PowerPoint Tutorial (16 Slides)
• Printable PDF Version of the Tutorial
• Read and Respond Reading Activity: "Understanding Color Theory Through Art" (with answer key)
• Creative Writing Prompt: "Discover a Secret Color"
• Compare and Contrast Organizer: Hues vs Tints and Shades (with answer key)
• Artist Reflection Prompts
• Visual Analysis Worksheet: Elements and Principles of Design
• Creative Thinking Sketch Task: Creative Process Drawing Prompt
• KWL Chart
• Assessment Rubric
• Display Sign for finished artwork

HOW TO USE IT

Use it as part of a visual art unit, a color theory lesson or an ELA and art cross-curricular activity. It is a good way to introduce or review color theory without messy materials like paint, and it also makes a solid sub lesson or early finisher extension.

NATIONAL STANDARDS

VA:Cr2.1.6a - Demonstrate openness in trying new ideas, materials, methods, and approaches in making works of art and design.

VA:Cr2.1.7a - Demonstrate persistence in developing skills with various materials, methods, and approaches in creating works of art or design.

VA:Cr2.1.8a - Demonstrate willingness to experiment, innovate, and take risks to pursue ideas, forms, and meanings that emerge in the process of artmaking or designing.

VA:Cr1.1.Ia - Use multiple approaches to begin creative endeavors.

FAQ

Who can use this resource?

Upper elementary and middle school teachers (Grades 4 to 7), homeschool educators and substitute teachers looking for meaningful, creative art instruction.

Do I need paint?

No. The project is done with colored pencil or pencil crayon.

How long will this lesson take?

Usually 2 to 3 class periods, depending on student age, skill level, your teaching pace and how far you go with the reading and writing parts.

Get free, classroom-ready art lessons and printables in my Free Art Lesson Library.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kathleen McGiveron (Ms Artastic) is an artist who has been featured on NBC LX News and OCO Magazine and designs art lessons for kids and educational resources for teachers. She is the founder of Ms Artastic and hosts the Ms Artastic YouTube Channel and Podcast.

TERMS OF USE

Images and lessons are copyright products.

YOU MAY: use this for your classroom, homeschool or as part of your creative teaching. Clip art may be used for classroom decor, bulletin boards and educational products with proper licensing.

YOU MAY NOT: post this on OutSchool, blogs or district drives, or share, resell or copy this product for others without appropriate licensing. Admin or districts must purchase additional licenses.

Sincerely,

Ms Artastic