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Middle School Grade  Project 1 week

Digital Doodles: Flowing with Yellena Flair!

Emily A
Updated
Effective Communication
Collaboration
Content Expertise
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Self Directed Learning
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Purpose

During this week-long project, middle school students will explore digital illustration techniques to express emotions and themes inspired by Yellena James' style using Procreate. They will collaborate with peers to create and critique artworks that reflect cultural identities and trends, engaging in effective communication and self-directed learning. Through hands-on activities, such as virtual tours and nature explorations, students will learn layering, blending modes, and color theory to develop their unique artistic styles while understanding the role of digital tools in visual storytelling. The experience culminates in a digital exhibition where students showcase their creations and share insights into their artistic journeys.

Learning goals

Students will master digital illustration techniques using Procreate, including the use of digital brushes, layers, and blending modes, to create vibrant, flowing artwork inspired by Yellena James. They will enhance their understanding of how digital art can express complex emotions and cultural identities, as well as develop a signature style influenced by renowned artists. Throughout the project, students will strengthen their communication and collaboration skills, applying feedback and self-reflection to evolve their artistic processes and solve creative challenges.

Competencies
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.

Products

Students will collaborate to craft a multimedia digital art exhibition that features their Procreate illustrations paired with video interviews discussing cultural and emotional themes. They will design a collective e-book, titled 'Nature's Narratives,' combining digital illustrations with reflective writings to showcase emotive storytelling inspired by natural imagery. As part of the final showcase, students will present their individual portfolios in 'Echoes of Emotion,' sharing brief presentations on the personal and thematic significance of their artworks. Additionally, a virtual 'Artistic Journey Map' will highlight their evolution in digital techniques and cultural influences through audio narratives accompanying the displayed artworks.

Launch

Begin with a 'Digital Art Expedition' by taking students on a virtual tour of Yellena James’ vibrant artwork to ignite their curiosity and imaginative thinking. Follow this with hands-on workshops where students actively apply her techniques using Procreate to create their own nature-inspired patterns. This activity encourages exploration of digital tools and sets the stage for collaborative and individual creativity throughout the project.

Exhibition

Host an interactive 'Digital Art Gala' allowing students to share their vibrant Procreate creations online with friends, family, and community members. Incorporate live sessions where students discuss their artistic journey, focusing on the personal themes and emotions expressed in their artworks. Include demonstrations of digital techniques used, engage viewers through interactive Q&A, and celebrate student achievements through a social media showcase of selected masterpieces.