Landmarks in My Community

Resource materials: pictures of familiar monuments, historic buildings or landmarks in the community. Chamber of Commerce brochures, newspaper archives, websites or postcards. Students can research local landmarks and go on location to do sketches for a great learning experience.

Materials and equipment: 8 x 10.5" art paper provided by Art to Remember • watercolors • oil pastels • markers.

Step 1: Discuss with students the history and importance of their choice of a community landmark. Help them decide what details to include, and what to give emphasis. Encourage them to be creative in their choices.

Step 2: Preliminary drawing. Sketch your landmark lightly in pencil. Be sure to have your subject be the center of interest and to interact with the background.

Step 3: Painting. Using watercolor, paint your landmark and the background. When your painting is thoroughly dry decide what should have detail or emphasis and add dry brush accents, oil pastel or marker to your painting.