![INSPIRED BY CHUCK CLOSE – Self-Portrait, Colour, Pattern, Shape](https://static.crayola.ca/uploads/lessonPlans/inspired-by-chuck-close-self-portrait-colour-pattern-shape/38a189b1f0e3806ffa9b985492141550-cover.png)
Supplies:
- Crayola Watercolour Paints
- Crayola Paint Brushes
- Water Containers
- Paper Towels
- Wooden Panel, e.g., Birch, Maple, Ash - .5 cm x 20 cm x 20 cm (.25" x 8" x 8") - 1 per student
Steps:
1
![Step 1](https://static.crayola.ca/uploads/476f6e93aa998809a0723f17c6845059-stepSml.png)
- Use a small wooden panel such as birch, ash or maple about .5 cm x 12 cm x 12 cm.
- Examine the patterns of ovals and lines on your wood panel.
- Look at the panel from all directions.
- Decide which side will be the top.
2
![Step 2](https://static.crayola.ca/uploads/f20e92a51f070369cc78cdc831c0a597-stepSml.png)
- Use watercolours to create a design by following the patterns made by the grain of the wood.
- Think about how the colours you choose make you feel.
- While you are working practice mindfulness.
Pay attention to how:
- thecolours you choose make you feel
- paint flows across the surface of the wood
- your body responds as you add each new colour
- thoughts flow in and out of your mind without distracting you
- you accept your own ideas and don't make judgements about them
- you stop and slow your breathing down to refocus your attention
- you keep yourself calm and relaxed
3
![Step 3](https://static.crayola.ca/uploads/def13f27a074741b65702deca4ff1a4a-stepSml.png)
- From time to time as you work look at the painting from a distance.
- Decide if you want to make any changes, for example,
- any of the colours.
- which side is the top - Once your work is finished look at it with fresh eyes.
- How does it make you feel?
- What does it remind you of?
- What do you see that makes you say that?
- What do you like best about the painting? - Give your work a title.
Subjects:
Grades:
Grade 4,
Grade 5,
Grade 6,
Grade 7,
Grade 8,
Grade 9