Tracing Circles

by Rhiannon Leonard

Circles can be found all around us. Close your eyes and think about the circles you see everyday. For this project, you will use 5 found circles to trace and design artwork.

Learning Target

● I can create unique art by tracing found circles on a page. I can use different sizes, patterns, intersecting lines, and circles inside and outside of each other.

Materials

● Paper – any size
● Pencil
● Colors (crayons or colored pencils)

Instructions

A pattern is something that repeats. Patterns are in seasons, song rhythms, movement and dance, to name a few. Let’s look at some visual patterns we can use in your art project:

A pattern of circles intersecting another circle:

A pattern of small circles inside bigger circles:

A pattern of color or line:

“A A A” pattern:

“A B A” pattern:

“A B C” pattern:

Be mindful of the process while making your art instead of concentrating on the product (what it’s going to look like at the end). Remember to encourage yourself by using kind words and actually say “good job” when you try something new or challenging.

1. Search and find 5 circles.

2. Trace the circles on a piece of paper:

3. Trace different sizes.

4. Trace circles into patterns.

5. Fill the paper with your design. Let the circles go off if you’d like.

6. Color the circles.

7. Congratulations! Don’t forget to clean up your workspace: Return the circles to where you found them
>Put the colors and pencil back
>Share your art by putting it on a special gallery wall.

Keep Making Art and Observing:
>Use a limited palette by choosing a few colors from the rainbow and only use these colors to fill in your circles.
>Play with symmetry and balance.

Symmetry is equal on both sides:

Asymmetry is not equal on both sides:

Reflection

Write in your journal or sketchbook
● Share your circle art with someone! Point out the different patterns. What do they see?
● What other shapes can you trace next time? Think about squares, triangles, or spirals.
● How many shapes can you find outside? Make a game to find patterns in art and nature…

Extra

● Find my art online at RhiannonLeonard.ART
● Watch a video of me doing this art project at: https://yout.be/Ud7Jgn4_09at
● We can’t wait to see your art! Tag me if you post to social media! I am @rhiannon_wind_leonard on Instagram.