ARTIST SERIES

Create an Alma Woodsey Thomas-Inspired Composition​
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Instructor: Charlotte Godon

Objective: You will learn about the artist Alma Woodsey Thomas and create a collage inspired by her artwork.

Part 1: About the Artist
Alma Woodsey Thomas (September 22, 1891 – February 24, 1978) was an African-American Expressionist painter and art educator. She lived and worked primarily in Washington, D.C. and has been described as a force in the Washington Color School. She is recognized for her exuberant works—noteworthy for their pattern, rhythm, and color. 

Part 2: Observe (Watch this 6:11 minute video)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsmBVMKbgUs

​Part 2 of this project involves looking at and responding to Thomas’ paintings. Click on this link to the Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) website to explore her work: https://americanart.si.edu/artist/alma-thomas-4778.
Choose one painting from Thomas' work and analyze it using these questions as a guide:
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  • ​Artist: Alma Woodsey Thomas
  • Title of Work:
  • Step 1: Description (What do you see?)     
  • Step 2: Analysis (How is the work organized?)      
  • Step 3: Interpretation (Why do you think the artist made this work?)       
  • Step 4: Judgement (Do you feel that the artist achieved her/his purpose? Do you like this work?)

Part 3: Materials
  • White paper (drawing, construction, etc. at any size, shape or orientation), blank canvas, or canvas board.
  • A pencil
  • Strips of different colored construction paper and/or card stock (I cut mine at ¼” on a paper cutter)
  • Glue stick or white glue
  • A compass or other round objects to trace (if you’re doing a circular composition)

Part 4: Directions
  • ​Go back and look at some of Alma Thomas’ paintings. Notice that she sticks with a pretty consistent palette (the colors that she uses). Also notice that the spaces between her marks are very consistent. Do some sketches and plan your color scheme in a sketchbook or on a piece of paper. Here are some student examples:
  • Once you’ve decided on a composition, lightly sketch it onto your paper/canvas.
  • ​Pick a color and start tearing your paper strips into small pieces and glue them into rows! ​Here is some student work in progress:
​4: Cover the entire paper with color!  Don’t be afraid to go past the edge. You can trim them later. Here are a few completed pieces:           

​​Have fun! ~Charlotte

​We would love to see what you create. Share your creations on Facebook or Instagram! #ArtSmartTroutLake
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