Fantasy chessboard: high school.

The Art Problem

Students will correctly utilize linear perspective to design a chessboard in perspective They will also study Surrealistic artworks as inspiration for their own original fantasy themes within the context of the game of chess.

Essential Concepts

1. Correct use of one-point perspective.

2. Appreciation of Surrealism 

3. Use of imagination to develop a fantasy theme

4. Development of basic drawing and design skills

Guiding Practice

1. Students practice the basics of one-point perspective.

2. Selected works by surrealists Salvador Dali and Rene Magritte are studied Developing themes and fantasy in art are discussed.

3. Students study the roles of each game piece in chess. Students design their fantasy chess pieces in sizes ranging from 1 1/2 to 3" (4 x 7.5 cm) high on the white drawing paper The chess pieces may be completed in a variety of media and are cut out for later collage work.

4. On 18 x 18" (46 x 46 cm) heavy white paper, students diagram their one-point perspective chess board. The chessboard may be arranged in a variety of positions.

5. Students select from various media to complete their chessboards and background imagery.

6. Students are encouraged to sample a variety of compositions with their fantasy chess pieces before gluing them into their final places both on the game board and in the background.

Assessing Learning

* Were students able to effectively use one-point perspective?

* Did students' artworks follow through on a specific theme?

* Did students create Surrealistic compositions with their subject matter?

* Was their choice and use of media effective in their artworks?

Sharon Wall, Altoona Area High School, Altoona, Pennsylvania.