Tessellations

Tessellations

Learning:

integrate math and art
grid concept
positive/negative shapes
problem solving skills
abstract thinking
critical thinking
intuitive sense
spacial rotation skills
eye-hand coordination
spacial relations

Assignment:

Create a pattern design based on a tessellation.
Start with creating a tessellation shape using the "translation pattern" (see the steps below). Your tessellation should be a recognizable (not abstract) object - animals, birds, insects, fish, etc.
Trace your tessellation onto a drawing paper.
Draw the details inside each tessellation,
Use Prismacolor pencils to complete the tessellations. Each shape should be different inside - use different color schemes, designs, details, etc.
Apply the coloring technique that would incorporate different shades of a color, color gradations, blending the colors.
Color with short strokes!!!

Below are the steps to create a tessellation.

	There are few patterns that you can follow to construct a tessellation. The basic one is "translation" pattern - where you attach the cut out pieces to an opposite side of your shape:
	After you sketched the shape - cut out the pieces. Do not ever throw away any cutouts! They should be attached to the opposite sides.
	Slide down the top piece and tape it to the bottom side of the square. Slide the left cutout to the right side of the square and tape it.
	Trace your tessellation onto a drawing paper:

	Add details!
	This is an example of a "translation" tessellation pattern, The bird shape was based on a square.
	This tessellation was based on a hexagon.
	Another example of a square-based tessellation .

	This is an example of a more complex tessellation pattern - "rotation" template.
	Instead of sliding a cutout to an opposite side - you rotate it.
	Ask me for more details if you choose this pattern for your artwork.
	Trace your tessellation onto a board.

	Add details to each tessellation.

Another example:
	Try to think of your own tessellation. Copying someone else's is not as much fun!


Essential questions: Who was M.C.Escher? What basic shapes can be tessellations? How to build a tessellation? How to use color pencils to blend colors?

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