Lesson: Wayne Thiebaud Cakes and Pies

Grade Level: 4th Grade

Art Elements: Color, Shape, Texture, Value

Art Skills: Drawing, Blending Oil Pastels

Making Connections: Famous Artist, Pop Art

In this lesson, students learn about the artist Wayne Thiebaud.  I have them watch the CBS Sunday Morning clip about Wyane and his life. They absolutely LOVE it!  Students learn about value, drawing with 3D Shapes, and affirm their knowledge of tints and shades through this project.

First, I show them all of the different options. On whiteboards, they practice all of the options before they decide what they want to do on their final copy.  The beauty of this lesson is that each one turns out different and each one reflections the student’s own choices and preferences.  This makes for a very engaged classroom.

The material is oil pastel/colored pencils on black paper. The black background really makes these pop!

Looking for more fun with Thiebaud? Check out this Cake Maker website for students to decorate their own cakes!

Do you ever do a lesson on Wayne Thiebaud? More in January, as my clay project for 4th grade ties into the “Cakes and Pies” theme!