Monochromatic Animal Selfies

(Approx. 2–3 Weeks)

Introduction

Animals have been an important subject in art throughout history. Artists have created paintings of animals to show emotion, personality, symbolism, and connection. There is even a specific genre called equine painting, which focuses on portraits of horses.

In this project, you will create a close-up animal portrait using monochromatic watercolor techniques, inspired by contemporary animal portrait artists.

Learning Goals

During this lesson, students will:

• Learn about the work of contemporary animal artists

• Compare two artists who use color in different ways

• Practice monochromatic watercolor painting

• Create a close-up animal portrait using a limited color scheme

VAPA Standards

• Prof.VA:Cr1.1 – Use multiple approaches to begin creative endeavors

• Acc.VA:Cr2.1 – Through experimentation, practice, and persistence, demonstrate skill development in an art form

Essential Question

How do images or paintings of animals make us feel when we observe them?

Featured Artists

Sinclair Stratton

Sinclair Stratton is a pet portrait artist whose work focuses on expressive animals and bold color choices. Her goal is to capture personality and emotional connection through color.

🎥 Watch the video in its entirety:

Sketchbook Notes (Required)

Label your entry “Sinclair Stratton” and date it.

Write a few notes answering:

• What stands out about her use of color?

• Why does she paint animals?

• Where does she hope her artwork will be displayed?

Check out more of Sinclair's work on her website:

Alicia VanNoy Call

Watch the video below featuring Alicia VanNoy Call’s work.

Check out more of Alicia's art on her Youtube page:

Compare both artists in your sketchbook:

• What do they have in common?

• What is different about their color choices?

Sketchbook Assignment: Color Practice

Materials

• Sketchbook

• Watercolor set

• Cup of water

• Brush

• Paper towel

Instructions

1. Watch the video below.

2. In your sketchbook, create a value study using 2 complementary colors.

   • Use 2 columns

   • Create 20 or more boxes total

3. Choose complementary colors (opposites on the color wheel).

   • Examples: Blue & Orange, Yellow & Violet

4. Create smooth transitions from dark to light using water only.

🎥 Color Practice Video:https://youtu.be/SnynI7xUKRo

Drawing Challenge – Week 1: Pencil Setup

Materials

• Watercolor paper

• Pencil & eraser

• Animal reference photo

Concept: “Animal Selfie”

Instead of drawing the full animal, imagine the animal is taking a selfie:

• Close-up view

• Focus on the face and expression

• Cropped composition

Instructions

1. Choose a realistic reference photo (your own pet is encouraged but not required).

2. Lightly draw the animal in pencil only.

3. The animal must:

   • Fill the page

   • Touch at least two edges of the paper

4. Lightly sketch:

   • Main shapes

   • Shadow and mid-tone areas (no shading yet)

🎥 Preview Videos:

Drawing Challenge – Weeks 2–3: Watercolor Painting

Materials

• Watercolor paper

• Watercolor paint set

• Pencil & eraser

• Cup of water

• Brush

• Paper towel

Choose ONE Color Scheme

• Option A: Warm & cool color contrast

• Option B: Monochromatic animal + complementary background

• Option C: Monochromatic using one color + water only (no black)

Painting Steps

1. Paint the background first.

2. Paint the animal second.

3. Start with light values, letting the white of the paper show.

4. Slowly build up medium and dark values.

5. Focus on:

   • Smooth transitions

   • Emotional expression

   • Clean craftsmanship

Rubric:

Criteria	4 – Excellent	3 – Good	2 – Developing	1 – Needs Improvement
Composition & “Selfie” View	Strong close-up composition; animal fills the page and shows personality.	Clear close-up view; composition mostly fills the page.	Composition feels too small or awkwardly cropped.	No close-up view; composition does not follow directions.
Use of Color	Color scheme is clear and intentional with strong value range.	Color scheme is mostly successful with some value variation.	Limited value range; colors feel flat.	Color use is unclear or incorrect.
Watercolor Technique	Paint is layered smoothly with control and care.	Some layering and control are visible.	Uneven or rushed paint application.	Little effort or improper use of watercolor.
Effort & Craftsmanship	Artwork is neat, complete, and shows strong effort.	Artwork is complete with minor issues.	Artwork looks unfinished or messy.	Artwork is incomplete or careless.