New
New
Mark-making using different tools
I can explain what tools are and can make different tools to create expressive mark-making
Lesson 2 of 6
New
New
- Year 8
Mark-making using different tools
I can explain what tools are and can make different tools to create expressive mark-making
Lesson details
Key learning points
- It is important to experiment with different tools to discover the variety of marks each one can make
- Trying different approaches can lead to new discoveries, like flicking, smudging, smearing
- We can be adventurous with tools, using found objects can create interesting marks
Keywords
Mark-making - the process of creating different lines, textures, and patterns in art
Art tools - instruments or materials used by artists to create marks, textures, shapes, and forms in their artwork
Texture - in art this refers to the way a surface feels or looks like it feels
Common misconception
All paintings are made with paint brushes.
Using different types of tools helps abstract artists create lots of different types of expressive marks and textures in their work.
This lesson could be linked to recycling and using recycled materials.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Found objects, toothbrushes, cotton buds, natural forms, poster paint, matt emulsion or acrylic paint
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 the primary difference between auditory and visual stimuli in art?
What is the primary difference between auditory and visual stimuli in art?
Auditory stimuli involve images, while visual stimuli involve sounds
Both involve sounds and images in the same way
Neither involve sounds or images
Q2.Match each natural element or concept with how it might inspire art
Match each natural element or concept with how it might inspire art
Q3.What does abstract painting use to convey emotions or ideas?
What does abstract painting use to convey emotions or ideas?
Realistic representations of people and objects
Only black-and-white tones to create mood
Photographic accuracy and detail
Q4.Expressive artworks use dynamic brushstrokes and bold colours to communicate rather than depict reality.
Expressive artworks use dynamic brushstrokes and bold colours to communicate rather than depict reality.
Q5.In art, stimuli can be visual, auditory, or elements that evoke reactions
In art, stimuli can be visual, auditory, or elements that evoke reactions
Q6.What do different stimuli like nature, emotions, and music help artists do in their artwork?
What do different stimuli like nature, emotions, and music help artists do in their artwork?
Create uniform and repetitive themes
Limit their creativity
Focus only on visual elements
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.How have different cultures used tools in art throughout history?
How have different cultures used tools in art throughout history?
To create identical art across all cultures
To limit their artistic expression
To only make decorative objects
Q2. is the process of creating different marks, lines, textures, and patterns in art
is the process of creating different marks, lines, textures, and patterns in art
Q3.Why is it important to experiment with different tools in art?
Why is it important to experiment with different tools in art?
To create uniform marks
To limit creativity
To focus only on one technique
Q4.Why is using different types of tools important for abstract artists?
Why is using different types of tools important for abstract artists?
It helps create uniform marks and textures
To limit creativity in artwork
To only work with brushes and traditional tools
Q5.What does texture in art refer to?
What does texture in art refer to?
The colour of a surface
The size of the artwork
The depth of the artwork
Q6.Custom mark-making tools allow artists to tailor their creative process to their vision.
Custom mark-making tools allow artists to tailor their creative process to their vision.
