Children can create a “magic” painting by first making a drawing in bright thick wax crayons. They think their image will disappear when it is covered with a layer of dark, watery paint and are intrigued to see their wax lines “resisting” the paint and shining through.
Children can use the same technique in a far more sophisticated fashion by using fine wax lines, with diluted multi-coloured inks or thin watercolour washes over the top. The more grainy and textural the result the better.
Pupils can experiment in making the illusion of three dimensions on flat paper. First draw a figure using light and shade in pencil to mould the form. On another drawing, use linear techniques only to create the effect of three dimensions. Compare and contrast results for solidity.
Students can try direct modelling in clay to create a draped three-dimensional figure. The challenging nature of showing the thin texture of fabric against a solid form will highlight the sculptor’s skill.
Organise a draped figure for a life-drawing lesson. Illustrate the difference between simply laying fabric over the body, which obscures it, and moulding the material to the shape of the body. which accentuates the form.
