Candy still life, Thiebaud style, in watercolor



First, we practiced drawing simple forms

         Fifth graders have been learning about creating forms using value changes, also known as shading.  We looked at the way master artist Wayne Thiebaud uses geometric forms and value to make his food paintings look three-dimensional. 
                                                        



Next, we tried four shading techniques

Finally, we tried creating value with our watercolor paints using more water for the lighter values, and less water to get shadows.  Watercolor painting is very tricky ... there are many tips and techniques we discussed for making the most of this translucent, hard-to-handle medium. My favorite parts are the cast shadows... Here are the colorful results: