This document provides instructions for a two-page journal assignment on the elements of art. Students are asked to create a grid layout journal entry defining and providing examples of each element, including line, shape, form, space, color, value, and texture. For each element, the instructions list specific examples or techniques students should include, such as different line types, geometric and organic shapes made from cut paper, labeled pictures of forms, examples of positive and negative space, a basic color wheel, value scales in pencil and colored pencil, and texture rubbings. Supplies listed include the ArtTalk book, journal, markers, glue, pencils, erasers, sharpies, and other materials.

1. Intro to Art - Elements of Art Journal Assignment
Due:
Create a two-page
bleed journal entry
for the Elements of
Art. (If you need
more space move
onto another page.)
Use a grid layout in
creating your
elements. (Look in
your folder for the
Creating a Visual
Verbal Journal
Handout for ideas.)
Supplies: ArtTalk book, Journal; markers; tissue paper; glue; pencil & erasers;
sharpies; and whatever other material you can think of.
What to do?
In addition to a definition for each element, make sure to include the
following:
1. Line. Use any material to make examples of the following different types of
lines. You can draw them, cut them out, paint them, sew them, or even make
them from pasta – be creative! (ArtTalk, p. 72-73)
o Vertical o Curved
o Horizontal o Width
o Diagonal o Texture
o Zigzag
2. Shape. Create both geometric and organic shapes. Be sure to include as many
geometric shapes as possible. Make these out of cut paper – can be construction
paper, newspaper, magazine paper, aluminum foil, or even wrapping paper.
(ArtTalk, p. 98-99)
3. Form: find pictures of forms. You will need to find a ball, a cone, and cube. You
can download them from the internet and cut and paste. Be creative. (ArtTalk, p.
100)
4. Space: (1) Create your own positive and negative space. Use cutout paper. You
will need your scraps for this one. (2) use a photo (one of your own or one you
find) and label – background, foreground, and middleground. (ArtTalk, p. 103,
113)
Page 1 of 2

2. 5. Color: Make a simple 6-color wheel (primary and secondary colors). You can use
colored pencils, paint, magazine cutouts, paint samples from Home Depot.
(ArtTalk, p. 136).
6. Value: Make two value scales using a regular pencil and a colored pencil. Go
from light to dark. (ArtTalk , p. 139 - 140)
7. Texture: Make at least 4 rubbings of different textures. Glue them into your
journal. (ArtTalk, p. 174-175)
Page 2 of 2