Art for Grade 4
1 Introduction to Art
1-1 Understanding the Basics of Art
1-2 Importance of Art in Daily Life
1-3 Introduction to Different Art Forms
2 Elements of Art
2-1 Line
2-2 Shape
2-3 Form
2-4 Space
2-5 Texture
2-6 Value
2-7 Color
3 Principles of Design
3-1 Balance
3-2 Contrast
3-3 Emphasis
3-4 Movement
3-5 Pattern
3-6 Rhythm
3-7 Unity
4 Art Materials and Tools
4-1 Introduction to Paints
4-2 Introduction to Brushes
4-3 Introduction to Pencils and Charcoals
4-4 Introduction to Markers and Crayons
4-5 Introduction to Paper and Canvas
4-6 Introduction to Other Art Materials
5 Drawing Techniques
5-1 Basic Shapes and Forms
5-2 Perspective Drawing
5-3 Still Life Drawing
5-4 Portrait Drawing
5-5 Landscape Drawing
6 Painting Techniques
6-1 Introduction to Watercolors
6-2 Introduction to Acrylics
6-3 Introduction to Oils
6-4 Mixing Colors
6-5 Blending Techniques
7 Sculpture and 3D Art
7-1 Introduction to Sculpture
7-2 Different Types of Sculptures
7-3 Introduction to Clay Modeling
7-4 Introduction to Paper Mache
7-5 Introduction to Found Objects
8 Art History and Culture
8-1 Introduction to Art History
8-2 Famous Artists and Their Works
8-3 Art Movements and Styles
8-4 Cultural Influences on Art
9 Art Critique and Appreciation
9-1 Understanding Art Critique
9-2 Analyzing Artworks
9-3 Appreciating Different Art Styles
9-4 Writing About Art
10 Final Project
10-1 Planning the Final Art Project
10-2 Executing the Final Art Project
10-3 Presenting the Final Art Project
10-4 Peer and Self-Evaluation
5 Techniques for Portrait Drawing

5 Techniques for Portrait Drawing

Key Concepts

Proportions

Proportions refer to the correct sizing and placement of facial features. A good starting point is to divide the face into equal parts. For example, the distance from the top of the head to the eyebrows should be the same as from the eyebrows to the bottom of the nose. This ensures that the face looks balanced and realistic.

Shading

Shading involves adding depth and dimension to your portrait by varying the darkness of the lines or areas. Use soft pencils (B, 2B) to create smooth gradients. For instance, shading the areas around the nose and under the eyes can make the face look more three-dimensional and lifelike.

Highlighting

Highlighting is the technique of adding lighter areas to your drawing to emphasize the highlights and reflections on the face. Use a kneaded eraser to lift pencil marks or use white chalk to add highlights. For example, adding a highlight to the tip of the nose and the cheekbones can make the face look more vibrant and alive.

Texture

Texture refers to the surface quality of the skin and hair. Use different pencil strokes to create various textures. For instance, use short, curved strokes for hair and smooth, even strokes for skin. This adds realism to your portrait, making the hair look soft and the skin smooth.

Expression

Expression involves capturing the mood and emotion of the subject. Pay attention to the eyes, mouth, and eyebrows, as these are key areas that convey emotion. For example, slightly curving the corners of the mouth upwards can create a smile, while furrowing the eyebrows can show concern or thoughtfulness.

Examples and Analogies

Imagine proportions as the blueprint of your portrait, ensuring everything is in the right place. Shading is like adding shadows to your drawing, making it look more three-dimensional. Highlighting is like adding stars to a night sky, making the important features stand out. Texture is like adding different fabrics to a dress, making it look more realistic. Expression is like adding a story to a picture, making it come alive with emotion.