KS2 & KS3 Caravaggio Light & Shadow Faces

Bring drama and mood into your art room with this impactful drawing lesson inspired by Caravaggio, the master of light and shadow. This accessible and engaging session introduces pupils to chiaroscuro—a technique using strong contrast to create emotional depth—and guides them step-by-step in creating a glowing portrait that appears to emerge from darkness.

Pupils will use black paper, white pencil or pastel, and subtle colour to create a dramatic face drawing lit by a single flame. With a focus on observational skill, contrast, and gentle layering, this project is perfect for building creative confidence and expressive mark-making.

Pupils will:

• Learn about Caravaggio’s life, legacy, and lighting techniques
• Understand chiaroscuro and how artists use light to guide emotion
• Explore drawing light first rather than outlining
• Use white pencil or pastel on black paper to create glowing effects
• Add hints of warm colour for mood and realism
• Reflect on atmosphere, tone, and what makes a portrait feel dramatic

What’s Included:

• Pupil-friendly PowerPoint presentation
• Artist info sheet (clear, accessible language and visual examples)
• High-quality reference photo to draw from
• Step-by-step drawing instructions
• Reflection and extension questions
• Optional homework/photography task

Perfect for:

• KS2 and KS3 (Years 4–9)
• SEN-friendly teaching (visual process, no need for outlines, step-by-step breakdown)
• Drawing units, Renaissance artist studies, or tonal contrast lessons
• Cross-curricular links with drama or religious studies
• Arts Week or one-off impactful portrait sessions

Let your students experience the power of contrast, mood and light as they draw like Caravaggio—bringing emotion out of the shadows.