Cadumen-Inspired Patterned Lion Art Lesson | KS2–KS3

Introduce pupils to the bold, patterned street art of Brazilian artist Cadumen.

Cadumen combines animals, plants, vivid colour and detailed patterns to transform walls and public spaces. In this ready-to-teach art lesson, pupils explore his artistic style, influences and environmental themes before creating their own patterned lion.

The practical activity uses simple materials and can be adapted for a range of abilities. It is suitable for KS2 and KS3 art lessons, home education, art clubs and cover work.

WHAT IS INCLUDED

• 11-slide lesson presentation
• 15-page teacher guide and lesson notes
• 2-page Cadumen artist information sheet
• Step-by-step activity instructions
• Pattern ideas and creative prompts
• Reflection questions
• Extension or homework activity

PUPILS WILL:

• Identify key features of Cadumen’s street art
• Explore how animals, nature and pattern can communicate ideas
• Use symmetry to construct a stylised lion
• Create contrast through pattern, line and colour
• Make thoughtful choices about composition and repetition

THE ART ACTIVITY
Pupils create a bold lion inspired by Cadumen’s animal murals. They divide the mane into sections and develop a different pattern within each area, combining strong black-and-white contrast with carefully selected colour.

The resource also includes guidance for discussing Cadumen’s Indigenous Brazilian ancestry respectfully without asking pupils to copy culturally significant designs.

An optional extension challenges pupils to design another patterned animal.

MATERIALS REQUIRED

• Plain paper
• Pencil and rubber
• Black marker or felt-tip pen
• Black fine-liner, if available
• Coloured pencils, pens or crayons
• Ruler, optional

This low-preparation lesson combines street art, pattern, symmetry and environmental themes while encouraging pupils to develop their own visual ideas.

Please note: This is an independent educational resource inspired by the work of Cadumen. It is not endorsed by or affiliated with the artist.