New
New
Principles of art: volume
I can create volume in two and three dimensional work.
Lesson 8 of 10
New
New
- Year 9
Principles of art: volume
I can create volume in two and three dimensional work.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Volume is the amount of space occupied by an object or figure in three dimensions: height, width and depth
- Volume is an element of visual expression that can be appreciated in a real or figurative way
- The illusion of volume can be created in a two-dimensional work
Keywords
Volume - how much space an object takes up. Includes height, width and depth
Bust - a sculpted or cast representation of a human head and neck
Chiaroscuro - an Italian word meaning 'light-dark'
Contour - a line that helps describe the outline and 3D form
Common misconception
Lines create an edge but they don't create volume.
Contour lines and directional hatching lines can be used to describe the volume of a 3D object in a 2D drawing.
Painting clay with dark acrylic and dry brushing with a light colour can quickly complete the busts.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Clay, clay tools or diy tools, pencils, paper. Optional: cameras and lights
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
Loading...
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the statement to the correct effect of balance:
Match the statement to the correct effect of balance:
Q2.Which best describes balance in art?
Which best describes balance in art?
The artist’s choice of colours
The size of the canvas used
Q3.Why might an artist make a piece intentionally imbalanced?
Why might an artist make a piece intentionally imbalanced?
To create harmony
To make the artwork look more colourful
Q4.What does balanced artwork often do?
What does balanced artwork often do?
Confuse the viewer
Use only symmetrical shapes
Q5.Which element is most important in creating visual balance?
Which element is most important in creating visual balance?
Brightness of background
The material of the surface
Q6.Match the type of balance with its characteristic:
Match the type of balance with its characteristic:
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the term to its meaning:
Match the term to its meaning:
Q2.Which statement best describes ‘volume’ in art?
Which statement best describes ‘volume’ in art?
The shape of drawings on paper
The colours used in sculpture
Q3.Which technique helps show volume in 2D artworks?
Which technique helps show volume in 2D artworks?
Bright colours
A smooth surface
Q4.Which of these is an example of a clay bust?
Which of these is an example of a clay bust?
A flat portrait painting
A drawing of a face with contour lines
Q5.Match the term to how it helps create volume:
Match the term to how it helps create volume:
Q6.How does chiaroscuro help show volume in art?
How does chiaroscuro help show volume in art?
By using bright colours everywhere
By outlining shapes with thick lines
