Marc Chagall, one of the most successful artists of the 20th century, created many paintings that were a dreamlike, surreal tribute to his native village of Vitebsk.

In order to have students connect with the idea of Surrealism, I’m going to have them create a painting that has some elements upside down, and some out of scale with each other.

• Large watercolor paper, 11″ x 15″
• Crayons
• Liquid watercolor paint
• Paint brush
• Salt

1. Students start with the idea of making a mixed up drawing. They make a curved horizon line near the bottom third of the paper. A few buildings will be added on top (in my case, the entry to our school), and maybe some trees.
2. The top left or right is a good space for a large sun. It should be only half on the page, with some kind of face included.
3. The students then turn the paper upside down, and draw another large element in the space that is left over. My sample has a figure playing tether ball (a new addition to our school). Small figures, animals or cars may be fit in where possible.
4. When the paper is filled, all the lines are traced heavily with crayons of different colors.
5. The shapes are all painted in with watercolor. While the paint is still wet, some areas will be sprinkled with salt to create texture. When the painting is dry, the salt is brushed away.