Painting patterns with pixels - pixel Palette - teaching computer art using ClarisWorks Paint - Brief Article

Arts & Activities, May, 2002 by Kim Yoerg

There has been much debate over whether computers should be used to create art. I strongly feel that art educators must expose students to a variety of art media--including the computer. Accordingly, I wanted my middle-school students to be able to create original artwork using the computer. To achieve this goal, I asked my students to design an original pattern using Claris Works Paint

Upon completion of the project, it was exciting to see how much they had learned. The students realized that their patterns had cultural characteristics. They made reference to clothing, wallpaper, floor tiles and more; and they were more aware of patterns in everyday life, along with the relationship between a pattern's design and use. Using the computer was a challenging experience since many of the tools and techniques were new to them.

When designing art projects for students to produce on the computer, I try to take advantage of the computer's unique capabilities. Painting a landscape is best done with paint on paper or canvas. However, it would be advantageous to use the computer's duplicating tool to create Warhol-Mike multiple images. As I explored my options, I began to identify lessons and projects that students could complete much more quickly and creatively using the computer. One idea developed very quickly. The criteria is to use ClarisWorks Paint to:

1. Create an organized pattern by repeating a pattern piece that you have designed.

2. Flip the pattern piece horizontally and vertically.

3. Use colors that contrast.

4. Align the pattern carefully.

This unit began with the definition of pattern and a discussion of the characteristics of systematic, organized patterns versus random patterns. We discussed patterns in nature. We also looked at the use of patterns in famous works of art. The students were especially excited by M.C. Escher's tessellations. Lastly, we used tracing paper to flip and copy a simple design in order to begin creating a pattern freehand. This helped students understand the process they would be using on the computer. They were now anxious to get into the computer lab.

PROCEDURE In order to simplify the process for my students, I set up two pieces of "stationery" on each computer in the lab. One document was 1" x 1". The second was 8" x 8", the final size of the pattern. Each student designed a "piece" for his or her pattern using the 1-inch square.

In a one-day lesson, I taught students how to use the Claris Works Paint tools. They experimented with textures, gradients, geometric shapes and the spray can. Students could choose from 256 colors. They could also draw freehand with one of the tools. Anything was possible.

When they completed the 1-inch square, they copied it and pasted it onto the 8-inch square. This began their final pattern. They started in the top corner of the document (A). The next three times they pasted the shape, they flipped it--first, horizontally (B), then horizontally and vertically (C), and finally, vertically (D).

Students were required to flip the pieces correctly and align them neatly. No white spaces were to be left between the pieces. The criteria also stated that they were to use contrasting colors, so very striking patterns developed. The now 2-inch square began to form the pattern. This was then duplicated until the pattern was complete. Students were amazed by how quickly they could complete their creations. Drawing and coloring the design by hand would have taken three to .four class periods. Once they knew how to use the Paint program, students could complete an exciting pattern in as little as 15 minutes. They were also pleased by the excellent quality of their work. Neatness was attainable by all.

EVALUATION We wrapped up the unit with presentations. Students beamed with pride as they displayed their final product on a large monitor and answered the following questions:

1. Give your pattern a title. Why did you choose this name?

2. Where might this pattern be used? Does it remind you of anything?

3. What was challenging about designing your pattern with the computer?

4. Name one advantage of using the computer to design your pattern.

During the presentations, I was excited to see that many students wanted to share extra patterns that they had created on their own time! Some created patterns at home on programs other than ClarisWorks Paint. Others worked before school or during study hall. Their enthusiasm was overwhelming.

The computer is an art tool that should be used when appropriate. Technology is an integral part of our culture and children need to be able to use the computer creatively. Their future depends on it.

Kim Yoerg teaches art at Mill Middle School in Williamsville, N. Y.