The aim of this project was to highlight the link between art and science and showcase the cross-curricular learning between these two subject areas. Students used a range of microscopic imagery as inspiration, including cells and bacteria they had studied in their science lessons.
Plant cell drawings and collagraph printmaking
Students made connections to the cells studied in their science lessons to develop their understanding and use of line, shape and texture. The drawings were then refined to create a series of designs for collagraph printmaking.
Collagraph printmaking inspired by research into plant cells
Miniature paintings
Students looked at microscopic imagery of natural forms as inspiration to create these miniature canvas paintings. To create these paintings, students practised their brush control, explored mark-making techniques and experimented with alternative colour-schemes by applying their knowledge of colour theory.
Microscopic canvas studies
Developing the theme further, students looked at microscopic images of butterfly wings and experimented with scale to re-create these wax drawings on large format canvases.
Watercolour paintings of microscopic and macro imagery
Students developed their use of bold line and shape to create painted compositions inspired by details of tropical fish. Students experimented with colour mixing, explored layered painting techniques and refined their brush control to add intricate details.
Drawing workshop
Inspired by explorations into macro photography of the natural world, students took part in a series of drawing workshops. Students explored the use of line and shape and developed close observation skills through experimentation with a range of drawing techniques including blind contour drawing and continuous line drawing.