4th Grade Direct Contour Drawing on the Mirror — With One Eye Closed!
This week in art class, our 4th graders took on a classic observational drawing challenge: direct contour self-portraits using a mirror—and with one eye closed!
What Was the Goal?
The purpose of this lesson was to practice true observation—learning to look like an artist. When students close one eye, their view of the world becomes a bit “flatter,” making it easier to translate what they see in the 3-D world onto a 2-D drawing surface. This activity helps students understand that drawing isn’t about symbols or shortcuts; it’s about closely studying shapes, lines, and proportions.
How Did We Reach Our Goal?
Students began by setting up their mirrors on easels and sitting tall in front of them. Then came the fun part: each artist closed one eye and carefully studied their reflected face. Using slow, focused lines, they drew exactly what they saw without looking down too often—just like real contour artists!
This process encouraged patience, concentration, and trust in their observational skills.
What Did We Learn?
We discovered that drawing is a learned skill, not a magical talent. It takes practice, persistence, and a willingness to truly see. Many students were surprised by how different their drawings looked once they relied on observation instead of memory or imagination—and that’s the point! Every line brought them closer to understanding how artists translate life onto paper.
Artists Who Inspired Us
We looked to two incredible contemporary portrait artists for inspiration:
Amy Sherald, known for her stylized, thoughtful portraits and use of grayscale skin tones.
Kehinde Wiley, celebrated for his vibrant, heroic portraits that combine traditional poses with modern subjects.
Both artists reminded students that portraits can be powerful, personal, and expressive—no matter the technique.
