Jawlensky Painting

Alexei Von Jawlensky (1864-1941)  was  a Russian Expressionist Painter in Germany. He was also a member of Der Blaue  Reiter (The Blue Rider) Group and later, Die Blaue Vier (The Blue Four).  His use of movement and color in his paintings show such depth to his surroundings.  The Blue Rider group fascinates me because they were the first to really stand out for their own expression and make a statement about it!  I also enjoy teaching my students about Expressionism because it gives them a chance to Express themselves!
For this painting project Fourth Grade Art students will sketch a self-portrait and paint the portrait in the style of Jawlensky.  I show them "Head" and a few other paintings that will inspire them to use color in a way that they are not used to. 

Carefully studying his paintings we discuss the use of color, line, shape and movement.  The students are always shocked when they see his paintings because of the unusual use of color on the face.  I pre-mix colors for the students to have a color palette to use.  We discuss how the mixture of complimentary colors will lead to muddy colors that will not be appropriate to use in this painting.  Students are given free reign to paint their picture any way they like.  A simple background and black outline is added.

For more information on Alex Jawlensky and The Blue Rider