Watercolor Galaxies

We started the lesson by learning about galaxies and the different types and characteristics they have. Then we practiced six different watercolor techniques so we could get comfortable using them. After that, we created our own galaxy artwork using at least three techniques. For my painting, I used the crayon resist technique to make stars, swirls, and a constellation, and I added mountains at the bottom with black crayon. I also used the salt technique around the constellation and a gradient wash on the mountains with black watercolor to give them more depth and shadows. I chose purple and blue for most of the background and added some red around the constellation to make it stand out.

An extension activity I would include is having students research a real galaxy, like the Milky Way, and use it as inspiration for a second watercolor painting. Students could focus on specific features, such as color patterns or shapes, and try to recreate them using the techniques they learned. I would also have them write a few sentences explaining which techniques they used and why. Another idea is to let students experiment with adding mixed media, like white gel pen or chalk, to enhance details like stars. This would give them more creative freedom while still connecting back to what they learned in the lesson.

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