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Alma Thomas Paintings

“Creative art is for all time and is therefore independent of time.”

— Alma Thomas, 1970


Introduction: Alma Thomas

In this lesson, we will learn about the life and artwork of Alma Woodsey Thomas, an African-American artist and teacher who lived and worked in Washington, D.C. She is now recognized as one of the most important American painters of the 20th century.

Alma Thomas is best known for her vibrant use of color, pattern, and rhythm, creating abstract works that feel energetic, joyful, and intentional.



Learning Goals

During this lesson, students will:

  • Learn about the life and work of Alma Thomas

  • Review the Principles of Design, with a focus on Pattern and Rhythm

  • Watch a video lesson on Alma Thomas and Color Field / Abstract Expressionist art

  • Create an original artwork inspired by the style and techniques of Alma Thomas



Essential Question

How can we use pattern and rhythm to create effective and expressive artwork?


Video Lesson

Watch the video below and take notes in your sketchbook.

As you watch, write down:

  • Key facts about Alma Thomas

  • How she uses color, pattern, and repetition

  • Anything that inspires you


Art Movement Context

  • Expressionism (early 20th century) uses distorted, vivid, and exaggerated forms to communicate emotional or spiritual ideas while still showing hints of reality.


  • Abstract Expressionism (post–World War II) removes recognizable subject matter entirely, focusing on emotion, movement, gesture, and the physical act of painting.

Alma Thomas’s work connects closely to abstraction, using color and pattern as a form of expression.



Assignment: Alma Thomas–Inspired Abstract Painting

You will create your own abstract painting inspired by the work of Alma Thomas, using your knowledge of color theory, pattern, and rhythm.

Objectives

Your artwork should:

  • Be abstract (no realistic objects required)

  • Clearly show pattern and rhythm

  • Use intentional color choices

  • Demonstrate thoughtful, planned mark-making

⚠️ Nothing should be random. Every mark should feel purposeful.



Color Theory Review

Before starting, review the following concepts:

  • Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary colors

  • Warm vs. Cool colors

  • Complementary, Analogous, and Triadic color schemes

We will also review how color affects mood and emotion. As you plan, note which colors and meanings appeal to you and why.


What Is Repetition?

Repetition means reusing the same or similar elements throughout an artwork. Repetition creates:

  • Unity

  • Consistency

  • Visual rhythm

This is a key feature of Alma Thomas’s work.



Planning (Rough Draft)

Before painting, you will complete a rough draft:

  • Plan your color scheme

  • Sketch out your patterns and spacing

  • Think about how rhythm will be created through repeated marks

This planning step is required.


Things to Remember While Painting

  • Be mindful of brush size — how large or small do you want your marks?

  • Do not use paint straight from the bottle.

    • Mix your own colors using white, black, or other colors

  • Create rhythm by varying the spacing between marks

  • Stay true to the style of Alma Thomas: repetition, pattern, and vibrant color

You will use tempera paint to complete your final artwork.



Materials Needed

  • Blank paper

  • Pencil

  • Tempera paint

  • Paintbrushes

  • Water cup

  • Palette



Directions

Using tempera paint, create an abstract artwork inspired by Alma Thomas’s style.

Remember:Her work relies on repetition, pattern, and rhythm — these should be your top priorities.



Things to Consider

  • Are your marks consistent and intentional?

  • Are your color choices thoughtful and planned?

  • Is this a piece you would enjoy looking at?

🎧 This is a great project to work on while listening to music.Have fun and trust the process!



4-Point Rubric

Criteria

4 – Exceeds Expectations

3 – Meets Expectations

2 – Approaching Expectations

1 – Needs Improvement

Pattern & Rhythm

Pattern and rhythm are very clear, intentional, and consistent throughout the entire artwork

Pattern and rhythm are clearly present and mostly consistent

Some use of pattern and rhythm, but it is inconsistent or unclear

Little to no evidence of pattern or rhythm

Color Use & Mixing

Colors are thoughtfully mixed, expressive, and enhance the overall composition

Colors are mixed appropriately and support the artwork

Limited color mixing or unclear color choices

Paint used straight from the bottle with little planning

Intentional Mark-Making

Every mark feels purposeful and well-planned

Most marks are intentional with minimal randomness

Some marks appear random or rushed

Marks are mostly random or careless

Effort & Craftsmanship

Exceptional effort, clean work, and strong attention to detail

Good effort with neat craftsmanship

Inconsistent effort or messy areas

Minimal effort and poor craftsmanship




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