New
New
Expressing emotion through art
I can explore emotions through line, symbols and doodles.
Lesson 2 of 6
New
New
- Year 9
Expressing emotion through art
I can explore emotions through line, symbols and doodles.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Art can be more powerful than words because it transcends language barriers
- Sketching can help process feelings and thoughts, serving as a visual diary
- Freeform painting or drawing can provide space to express feelings without judgment or expectation
Keywords
Emotion - feelings experienced
Symbolism - the use of objects, characters or ideas to represent something else.
Doodle - a casual, aimless drawing or pattern made while thinking about something else
Common misconception
Doodling is not a valid artform.
Doodling can express emotion, personality and imagination through simple lines and shapes. Many professional artists, illustrators, and designers start their ideas through doodling.
Try to let go of perfection and respond to thoughts, emotions, or prompts with quick lines and shapes.
Teacher tip
Equipment
fineliner or biro, pencil, 3D materials e.g. clay, felt, wire. Needle and thread, paint, paintbrushes, scissors.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
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.Can line represent emotion? Select all statements that apply.
Can line represent emotion? Select all statements that apply.
No, line alone cannot represent emotion.
Q2.What does the word "express" mean in the following sentence? "Artists often express their feelings through their work."
What does the word "express" mean in the following sentence? "Artists often express their feelings through their work."
to speed something up
to remove something
Q3.How can art support a person’s wellbeing?
How can art support a person’s wellbeing?
by focusing on technical skills only
by discouraging creative thinking
Q4.How can reflecting on artistic practice contribute to wellbeing?
How can reflecting on artistic practice contribute to wellbeing?
by comparing an artwork to others
by limiting creativity to specific outcomes
Q5.In Western cultures, which colour is usually associated with anger?
In Western cultures, which colour is usually associated with anger?
blue
yellow
Q6.Which shape could represent calmness?
Which shape could represent calmness?
a geometric triangle
an angular lightening bolt
Assessment exit quiz
5 Questions
Q1.Which statements correctly respond to the question: "Is thinking an emotion?"
Which statements correctly respond to the question: "Is thinking an emotion?"
Thinking is an emotion.
Q2.Which of the following emotions can be expressed through art?
Which of the following emotions can be expressed through art?
only happiness
only sadness
Q3.What does it mean to view art as a visual language?
What does it mean to view art as a visual language?
Art is only meaningful when accompanied by text.
Art never tries to express a message.
Q4.Is doodling a valid art form?
Is doodling a valid art form?
No, it is for passing time only.
No, it’s just random scribbles.
Q5.What can doodling help improve?
What can doodling help improve?
sleepiness
physical strength
