Towering Redwoods
- Hope Creek Studios
- Jul 22
- 2 min read
🌲 Art Around the World: North America – Towering Redwoods 🌲
As part of our Art Around the World series, we took time to admire one of North America's natural wonders—the majestic Redwood Forests of the West Coast. Just gazing at these towering trees brings a sense of calm and awe, and our art room felt that same serenity as we created our own interpretations.
I always love to sneak in some cool facts during lessons, and this one really sticks with students:It takes 52 of my students holding hands to circle just one Redwood tree! The “whoa!” reactions never get old.
What started as a one-grade project quickly spread across Grades 1–5—because honestly, these turned out so gorgeous, and the art process was just as enjoyable as the results.
🎨 The Process:
Surface: We used black paper for extra drama and contrast.
Outline: Students created tree trunks and branches with black glue (a simple mix of white glue and black tempera paint). It gives a stunning, slightly raised outline—perfect for making the trees pop.
Sky: With tempera paint, we practiced blending light to dark using white and blue. This gave students a chance to work on gradient technique and explore atmospheric perspective.
Trees: Using chalk pastels, students colored in their trees—focusing on both bark and greenery. I challenged them to include at least 2–3 different values for each area. It was a beautiful introduction to texture, shading, and depth.
💡 Why It Works:
Students connect with nature through art in a personal, creative way.
It integrates science and geography seamlessly—hello, cross-curricular win!
There’s a strong focus on art techniques: value, contrast, layering, and blending.
And black glue? Always a crowd-pleaser. It turns a regular drawing into something dimensional and dramatic.
The finished pieces looked like glowing forest scenes at dusk—mysterious, bold, and full of character. Definitely a keeper for next year’s art travel itinerary!
©HOPECREEKSTUDIOS2025
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