A R T with M R. F A I R C H I L D
Visual Arts & Adv. Art 2025-2026
MIXED MEDIA STILL-LIFE DRAWINGS
(Drawing and Collage)
Lessons:
In this unit, we create still life drawings, created on a collage background. The work combines detailed observational sketching with a dynamic, textured surface. The contrast between the carefully rendered objects and the layered collage elements adds depth and visual interest to the composition.
What is Still-Life?
Still life drawing is a type of artwork that focuses on depicting inanimate objects, such as fruits, flowers, household items, or natural elements, arranged in a composition. Artists use still life to study shape, texture, light, shadow, and value, helping them develop observational skills and an understanding of form.
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This practice is important because it enhances an artist’s ability to closely observe details, improving accuracy and attention to form. It also develops an understanding of light and value, allowing artists to master shading, highlights, and contrast to create a sense of depth. Through still life drawing, artists learn how to arrange objects in a balanced and visually appealing way, improving their composition skills. Additionally, it strengthens fundamental drawing techniques that can be applied to other forms of art.
What is Value?
In art, value refers to the lightness or darkness of a color or tone. It is one of the fundamental elements of art and is crucial for creating depth, contrast, and the illusion of three-dimensionality. A wide range of values helps define form, create mood, and direct the viewer's attention within a composition. Artists use shading techniques, such as hatching, cross-hatching, and blending, to manipulate value and enhance their work.
Mixed Media Still-Life Drawings Steps
Step 1.) Practicing Still-Life
Our first step in this project will be to practice a still-life drawing. In this practice, you will choose from a variety of still life options, and practice with proportions.
Step 2.) Simple Collage
When your practice drawing is done, set it aside and begin a simple collage using white paper as the backdrop, a ripped or cut piece of newspaper or a book page, and a ripped or cut piece of toned paper.
Step 3.) Transferring the Still Life
Finally, we will transfer your practice drawing to the final sheet, and begin using value, along with a different medium for each paper. For example, pastels on the cardboard, pen on the newspaper, charcoal on the white paper.
ASSIGNMENTS
(Drawing: Value, & Still Life)
Sketchbook: Value & Still Life
A still life drawing is a detailed representation of inanimate objects, such as fruits, flowers, or everyday items, arranged in a composition to explore shape, texture, and value.
Value as an element of art refers to the lightness or darkness of a color or tone. It is essential for creating contrast, depth, and the illusion of form in a composition.
Value Scales
After taking notes on value and still life, replicate the examples of value scales. This should include 5 pumpkins, and 3 rectangular value scales.
Stippling
Cross-Hatching
Finally, draw 3 to 4 practice drawings of a still life using items laying around. It could be a glass, flowers, fruit; anything that could sit on a tabletop.
PROJECT
MIXED MEDIA STILL-LIFE DRAWINGS
Using the notes from your sketchbook, and understanding of still-life drawings and value, create a mixed media still life drawing.
The piece should utilize 3+ pieces of paper, 3+ mediums, and accurately depict a still life of your choosing.
