Docent Training
AAYF 2026-2027 Poster
AAYF Docent Calendar
Three Little Birds
Created by Sandi Arthur
October 2026
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
In this Charley Harper inspired mixed-media project, students will practice painting graduated color progression on paper then cut out simple shapes and reassemble them to create a collage of three birds.
OBJECTIVES
1. Students will learn about the art and conservation of Charley Harper.
2. Students will create graduated color progression to better understand color mixing.
3. Students will practice combining simple shapes to make complex, recognizable forms.
4. Students will learn about collage and practice fine motor skills using scissors.
SUPPLIES (Per student)
• 1 piece of black Strathmore Artagain paper 400 series (60 lb), 12” x 18” cut in half the long way
• Three-quarter sheets of 9” x 12” acrylic artist paper (130lb)
• 1 pair scissors
• 1 “ Flat brush
• White colored pencil
• Black fine tipped Sharpie
• Pencil • 1 sheet of copy paper
• AAYF Label
SUPPLIES (Shared)
• Acrylic paints: magenta/red, bright yellow, cobalt blue
• Souffle cups/paper plates for paint
• Glue and Q-tip
• Water and paper towels
ART VOCABULARY
Serigraph: A method of printing by pushing ink through a mesh screen stencil. It is also known as silkscreen. One color is printed at a time, so several screens can be used to produce a multicolored image or design.
Collage: Comes from a French word meaning, “to glue.” Art made by gluing various materials to a surface.
Primary Colors: Colors are considered primary because they cannot be made by mixing other colors.
Secondary Colors: Secondary colors are green, purple, and orange. These can be made by mixing two primary colors together in equal amounts.
Ombre: A French word that means, “shaded,” ombre is a dramatic color effect that gradually blends one color into another. It’s often used in hair coloring, nail art, and graphic design.
Whimsical: Whimsical art is a style of art that is imaginative, playful, and fanciful. Whimsical art is meant to be joyful and make the viewer feel like they can step into a world where anything is possible.
Symmetrical: Having two sides that are the same. If you can draw a line down the center of something and get two similar halves, it’s symmetrical. A circle is symmetrical, and so is our body.
DOWNLOAD
▪ Three Little Birds Lesson Plan
▪ Three Little Birds Slideshow
▪ Three Little Birds Quick Video
TEACHERS/PARENTS RESOURCES
▪ Distance Learning Tips – Suggestions to help make this experience enjoyable for all.
▪ Elements of Art – Resource sheet with vocabulary used by artists.
