Location: Rocklin
Day & Time: Friday 12:30-2:30 (Once a month)
Grade: 7th-12th
Mentor: Frizzle Frizzle
Email: inspiredbyamg@gmail.com
Dot-painting Studio: Mandalas & Beyond
Dot-Painting Studio: Mandalas & Beyond is a hands-on visual arts course where students explore creativity, design, and self-expression through the vibrant art of dot painting. Using acrylic paints and specialized tools, students will create original mandalas, self-portraits, nature-inspired artwork, and decorative pieces on a variety of surfaces, including journals, coasters, cutting boards, canvases, stones, and other mixed-media materials. Students will investigate color theory, symmetry, pattern design, composition, and cultural influences while developing artistic confidence and craftsmanship. Aligned with California Visual Arts Standards for high school, the course encourages experimentation, originality, creative problem-solving, and the development of a personal artistic style in a relaxed and inspiring studio environment.
Outcomes
By the end of this course, students will:
create original dot-painted artworks using a variety of techniques and materials
apply principles of design, including balance, symmetry, contrast, rhythm, and pattern
demonstrate understanding of color relationships and visual composition
explore artistic influences from global traditions, mandala art, and contemporary design
develop craftsmanship and precision through layered painting techniques
experiment creatively across multiple artistic surfaces and formats
reflect on artistic choices and communicate meaning through visual art
build confidence in creative expression and studio practice
maintain safe and respectful use of art materials and workspace procedures
produce a portfolio of completed projects demonstrating growth and originality
Activities:
Students will participate in guided demonstrations, independent studio projects, collaborative critiques, creative design challenges, and technique workshops focused on dot painting methods and mixed-media art. Projects will include geometric mandalas, expressive self-portraits, seasonal and nature-inspired scenes, abstract designs, and functional art pieces. Students will explore layering, spacing, texture, symmetry, and detail work while experimenting with color palettes and surface preparation. Opportunities for personalization and artistic exploration will be emphasized throughout the course, allowing students to transform everyday objects into unique works of art.
Materials:
All materials and studio supplies will be provided for student use, including paints, dot-painting tools, brushes, sealants, practice materials, and assorted project surfaces. Students will have access to a wide range of artistic media and specialty items designed to support experimentation, creativity, and successful completion of projects throughout the course.
Class Sessions
1st Semester:
September 11th
October 9th
November 6th
December 4th
2nd Semester:
January 15th
February 5th
March 5th
April 9th
“What is memorized is easily forgotten, what is understood is never forgotten.” ~Dr. Adler
All classes are full-year classes. Students enrolled in a Fall Semester class will automatically enroll for the Spring Semester in December to ensure their place in the class. Pricing is per semester.
