The Windmill & the Teenaged Nazi Activity 2: The Art of War

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Grade Level: Grade 9 – 12
Subject: Art, Art History, History, Media Studies
Materials needed: Access to computer/ high-speed Internet

Outcome:

  • Students will be expected to engage in the critical analysis process by viewing, interpreting, and reflecting on various works of art related to war.
  • Students will be expected to demonstrate an understanding of how a work of art reflects the society and era in which it was created.
  • Students will be expected to discuss the work using the appropriate terminology.

Instructions
1. Students will be asked to select a work of art related to war. It is recommended that students do not select art from this exhibit.  Students should select a work of art by a Canadian artist that is focused on the subject of war. Students may chose to begin their search online at the following sites:
http://www.warmuseum.ca/cwm/exhibitions/artwar/collections/collection_canada_e.shtml

2. Students will be asked to prepare a report on the work of art that includes the following:

  • Title of painting
  • Name of artist
  • Year created
  • Medium (acrylic, oil, etc)
  • Collection to which the work of art belongs (museum, art gallery, etc)
  • Identify the conflict the painting depicts (War of 1812, WWI, Korea)

Students must write a 250 - 500 word analysis that addresses the following:

  • What is the artist trying to say in this work?
  • Identify and discuss three elements of art the artist uses to achieve his or her purpose (line, shape, form, space etc.)
  • Identify and discuss two principles of design the artist uses to achieve his or her purpose (movement, repetition, unity etc.)
  • State your opinion as to whether or not the artist is successful in conveying his or her interpretation of war.