For this assignment, you will learn how to recognize shapes in three-dimensional objects and to identify dominance and subordination in art. Then you will create your own representational drawings that rely on shapes and use dominance and subordination to create a unified piece Step 1: Recognize shapes in famous still-life images.
If you have not already completed the pre-project activity, review the images in the Resources section at the end of this document.

Step 2: Arrange your own still life.
Use everyday household objects to create an arrangement that is pleasing to the eye and that will be interesting to draw.
Consider a variety of factors when arranging your still life.
Establish a strong directional light source (for example, place the objects near a window or a lamp).
Choose a range of objects with different shapes and textures.
Place the objects in an interesting, casual arrangement. The composition should be cohesive and show varying heights and distances. It should not be perfectly symmetrical, sterile, or overly staged.
Take a photograph of the still-life arrangement before you begin to draw.

Step 3: Sketch your still life, beginning with the shapes.
Observe and draw the individual shapes you see in the still life.
In addition to the shapes of specific objects, consider overarching compositional shapes—for example, a triangle created by the relationship between three different objects in the frame.
Draw the shapes as you see them, rather than as you imagine them to be. For example, even if you know that a plate is circular, draw an oval if perspective makes the plate appear to be an oval.

Step 4: Add detail, shading, and dimension to your drawing.
As you shade, consider the light source.
Use value, shading, color, contrasting lines, and shape to create a focal point (area of dominance) and an area of subordination.
Pay close attention to what you actually observe in the arrangement. Draw what you see, rather than what you think you should draw.
Notice what you choose to include or exclude from the drawing.

Step 5: Use the rubric and the editing checklist to self-assess, reflect on, and revise your work.
Use the rubric criteria to identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.
Use the editing checklist to check for common errors and make sure your written work is ready for publication.
Revise and edit your work as needed in order to ensure that it is of high quality.

Step 6: Review and revise your work.
Is your name on your work?
Is your drawing a still life of an inanimate object?
Does your work use color, value, contrast, or attention through contrasting lines to create a focal point through dominance and subordination?
Does your drawing use shapes to create a representational work of art?
If you were unable to check off all of the requirements on the checklist, go back and make sure that your project is complete. Save your project before submitting it.

Step 7: Complete the project reflection questions.

Step 8: Upload and submit the following completed documents:
A photograph of your still-life arrangement
A scan or photograph of your drawing
Your answers to the project reflection questions