Cubism

Cubism is one of the most influential modern art movements that began in the early 1900's in Paris, France.  The Cubist painters rejected the inherited concept that art should copy nature, or that they should adopt the traditional techniques of perspective, modeling, and foreshortening. They wanted instead to emphasize the two-dimensionality of the canvas. So they reduced and fractured objects into geometric forms, and then realigned these within a shallow, relieflike space. They also used multiple or contrasting vantage points. (Cubism, Met Museum)

In this project, students analyze master artworks from the Analytic and Synthetic Cubism movements along with art historical and philosophical articles to understanding the approach.  Then, students are taught skills such as pattern-making, layering collage elements, fracturing objects when drawing, layering drawings of multiple perspectives, and color theory.  Afterwards, students create a drawing while critiquing throughout the creative process.

STUDENT ARTWORK

MODELS