The learning objectives for this lesson are to explore expressive mark making and mixed media techniques by constructing handmade brushes and using them to create layered artworks of Australian magpies. Inspired by John Wolseley’s connection to the landscape and ecology, students will reflect on the role of birds in their environment and learn how texture, shape and tone contribute to visual storytelling.

Materials     

• Found natural materials (sticks, leaves, grasses, seedpods)
• Masking tape, jute string, plasticine
• A2 cartridge paper
• Eco dyes, inks or food dyes
• Spray bottles (optional)
• Oil pastels – black, white, grey, orange/red tones
• Reference images of magpies
• Scrap paper for brush testing