New
New
Exploring and experimenting with materials and techniques
I can make experiments that reflect my understanding of visual language.
Lesson 8 of 18
New
New
- Year 11
Exploring and experimenting with materials and techniques
I can make experiments that reflect my understanding of visual language.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Consider how the choice of materials (e.g. paint, clay, fabric) affects the aesthetic and emotional impact of the work.
- Understanding and analysing an artist's process can illuminate the artist's skill and intent.
- Observe how artists experiment with materials and methods to create unique effects or push creative boundaries.
Keywords
Visual language - the way artists use elements like line, shape, and colour to communicate ideas and emotions
Implicit - describes things in which a meaning is implied or hinted at, rather than being expressed directly
Common misconception
I can just make lots of different versions and present them as experiments.
Experimentation is about thinking through doing. It is only useful when it moves your creative journey forward.
This is a great lesson to start a period of exploratory learning based on the pupils' chosen artists or sources.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Choose materials suitable for your specialism, but be prepared to explore those that cross boundaries and offer new experiences.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is meant by visual language in art and design?
What is meant by visual language in art and design?
The use of written words in a sketchbook
A type of language spoken only by artists
The titles and labels of artworks
Q2.Match each material to a typical association:
Match each material to a typical association:
Q3.Why is making quick experiments with materials and processes a good starting point?
Why is making quick experiments with materials and processes a good starting point?
It makes your final work bigger
It avoids the need for reflection or learning
It ensures every sample looks identical
Q4.Select 3 of the following reasons artists experiment with materials?.
Select 3 of the following reasons artists experiment with materials?.
To copy another artist’s work exactly
To avoid making mistakes
Q5.What does the combination of concrete and neon typically suggest in visual language?
What does the combination of concrete and neon typically suggest in visual language?
Warmth and tradition
Nature and sustainability
Peace and stillness
Q6.True or false? Materials can be symbolic or have associations that contribute to your visual language.
True or false? Materials can be symbolic or have associations that contribute to your visual language.
