looking, noticing and paying attention to something carefully

shapes that do not have straight lines and are found in nature

shapes that have uniform measurements and do not appear in nature

a way to document ideas, observations, and creative processes for future reference or reflection

The presence of nature in art

Art and design

Animals depicted in art

Nature and symbolism

Nature and architecture

Art and environmental activism

Artist responses to plastic pollution

In this unit, pupils will explore art, artefacts, and architecture from around the world. Through hands-on activities, they will experiment with different techniques and materials to create artworks. Pupils will gain a wider context of how art shapes and reflects our global history overtime.

The importance of nature in art

to help break down the complex form into easier parts

When drawing from observation why is it best to start with the basic shapes you notice?

Develop geometric shapes to outline the basic structure.

Include organic shapes to capture the natural curves and irregular shapes.

Gradually develop tonal shading to show light and dark areas.

Use mark-making to show detail and texture and explore surface.

Put the following steps in order for creating an observational drawing of a natural form. Arrange them from the first step to the last step.

makes the drawing look smoother and more controlled

adds a sense of spontaneity and unexpected mark-making effects

makes the drawing look more like a photograph

What does using a stick with ink instead of a regular pen, pencil or brush do to your drawing?

observing carefully to notice and understand individual elements

seeing the general shape and size of the subject

looking at how light and shade fall on the subject

checking the size and relationship between different parts

Match the term with the correct description about close observation in art.

copying nature exactly as it appears only

using elements of nature like shapes, colours, and textures to inspire

by using natural forms as tools or materials for creating artwork

How do artists use nature in their artwork?

They can use nature as a tool to draw, build, create texture or marks.

They can use natural materials, textures, and forms to create their art.

They never use natural tools or materials in their artwork.

In addition to drawing from nature, how else can artists use nature in their work?

drawing from your imagination and not looking at something

drawing something you see in real life by looking at it carefully

drawing with your eyes closed but remembering something

dolouring a picture using a chosen colour palette

Work from the top to the bottom of the page.

What is the best way to start an observational drawing?

mathematical shapes like squares, triangles, and circles

Match the terms with their correct descriptions.

creating a detailed final artwork right away

making a visual record of something the artist sees, like a sketch or a photo

the process of thinking about the success and weakness of an artwork

to document ideas, observations, and creative processes

Match these key words with their descriptions.

observing the world around us including trees, animals and flowers

drawing by looking carefully at something in front of you

looking at something real in the world around you to create art. 

using your own creativity to develop new ideas

Match the term with the best description.

Starter Quiz

What is observational drawing?