Frottage: Intermediate

Summary

Drawing

Frottage, or the process of creating art through texture rubbings, is an exciting tool that can be used with a variety of media. Experiment with texture, play with the elements of composition and shape, try different mark making materials, and layer colors to create unique pieces. In this lesson, students will look at the work of Do Ho Suh for inspiration in creating a unique artwork. Students will think about the spaces they interact with the most, and the impressions that their life has on those spaces. Students will use this consideration in choosing what objects they would like to take rubbings of.

Essential Terms

Frottage: the technique or process of taking a rubbing from an uneven surface to form the basis of a work of art
Texture: the feel, appearance, or consistency of a surface or a substance
Mark Making: describes the different lines, dots, marks, patterns, and textures we create in an artwork
Juxtaposition: the fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect

Objectives

Students will be able to create a rubbing.
Students will be able to respond to their homes and communities through artmaking.
Students will be able to experiment with frottage to develop new methods of mark making.

Master Artist / Historical References

Do Ho Suh, Rubbing/Loving

Age Level(s)

10 - 14 years old

Needed Materials

9 x 12” 50-60Lb Paper
Wax Crayons

Learning Path

Beginner
Intermediate

Downloads

Project Instructions (PDF)

Attributions

Virtual Learning Project Developer: Augustine Smith

Curriculum Developer: Tamah Minnis

Step 1

Create a test sheet to practice frottage without a set composition. This is a great place to find textures before applying them to your final image

Step 2

Select three to five objects or surfaces with an interesting texture from around your home or community. Take a walk around your house and think about what you touch or see every day without noticing.