Instructions Step 1: Investigate the history of landscape painting, and explore examples of
landscape paintings by a variety of artists.
a) If you have not already completed the pre-project activity, read the article and
explore the examples listed in the Resources section. Then respond to the
questions in the pre-project activity.
Step 2: Identify a location that you would like to paint.
a) While this location could be somewhere in nature, such as a park, lake,
mountain, ranch, or backyard, you could also consider painting an urban
landscape that includes buildings and other human-made structures.
b) Choose a setting in which you will be able to sit safely and comfortably for an
extended period of time.
Step 3: Bring your art-making materials (painting surface/paper, paints, brushes,
and easel if you have it) to the location, and paint what you see.
a) Take note of the weather, the time of day, and where you choose to sit.
b) As you paint the landscape, consider what you see, as well as how it makes
you feel.
c) Think about what you would like your viewer to experience, and what you
would like to share about what you see.
Step 4: Write a short reflection (2-3 paragraphs) about your painting.
a) Describe the painting you created and the decisions you made during the
process.
b) In your reflection, discuss the art elements (color, texture, form, line, space,
value) and art principles (emphasis, pattern, rhythm, balance, proportion,
unity) used in your painting. Where appropriate, make comparisons to the
paintings you examined by professional artists.