Teachers can choose one of two options:
1. Each student learns to paint the same animal (example; bird, moose, bear, squirrel, or animal of their choosing if it can be connected to another lesson they're working on), or a selection of 3 animals can be provided for younger classes with stencils available to simplify the drawing aspect.
OR
2. Students can each choose and draw their own animal free-hand. (Stencils can also be provided if some students are not comfortable drawing their animal).
Students will learn the basics of watercolour painting through a step-by-step process that walks them through how watercolour paints work, the way water affects how light or dark the paint appears on paper, colour blending and layering.
Each student will begin by following along with a technique practice demonstration on a piece of paper to see first-hand how the paint reacts to the water. Once comfortable with their technique, each student will select a Yukon animal of their choosing and draw (or use one of the stencils provided - depending on grade/ability) their animal with pencil onto their watercolour paper. They will then paint their animals using the techniques they've learned.
Students will apply the following skills during the lesson:
Brush control – handling and controlling the brush
Colour mixing – creating and blending colours
Water control – using water to change colour intensity
Observation – noticing colour, shape, and detail
Creativity & expression – making independent artistic choices
Each student will complete the lesson with a unique painting of their own.
| Grade Suitability | K-12 |
| Maximum Class Size | 25 students |
| Time Required | Grades K-7, 1.5 hours; Grades 8-12, 2 hours. 1 hour to prep for each class. Set-up time in the classroom will take 10 mins. |
| Material Required | Water colour paper, water colour paint, painters tape, paint brushes, cups for water, paper towel. Artist will provide all supplies |
| Material Cost | $40 per class |
| Language of Instruction | English or French |
| Communities | Carcross, Haines Junction |
| Special Notes | A longer version of this program is also available. |
Inspired by the land I grew up on, I find my artistic muse in the mountains, tundra, and wildlife that makes the Yukon so unique. Capturing moments in the flora and fauna, I have found my own approach to preserving the beauty of the land and its wild inhabitants.
I have been creating art for as long as I can remember and have been teaching art classes for over 15 years. I am also currently completing my teaching degree at Yukon University through the YNTEP program, and hope to be incorporating art into my own classrooms very soon!
I chose watercolour for my workshops in the schools because watercolour is an accessible, hands-on way for students to develop creativity, concentration, fine-motor skills, and self-expression while learning to embrace experimentation and mistakes as part of the learning process.