Visual Verbal Journal: Art Lesson Plan

If there is a place for writing in the art room, this is it. The famous use of visual verbal journals of Leonardo Da Vinci show examples of how visual art, when combined with the written word, can give artists an outlet and viewers insight into their mind and perspective. The Visual Verbal Journal Art Lesson Plan is cross curricular, bringing together visual and language arts.

Visual Verbal Journal Art Project

The Visual Verbal Journal Lesson Plan uses a mixed media journal and colored tissue paper, tempera sticks, and other decorative pieces to give students the freedom to create their own unique journal and experiment with different mediums.

Words are an important part of an artist’s expression when it comes to visual verbal journaling, and the mixed media sketch pad supports both wet and dry mediums and techniques. Students may even develop an interest in creating an ongoing journal full of artistic ideas and inspiration.

View the Lesson Plan: Visual Verbal Journals

Tips for Creating Visual Verbal Journals

Students may have a hard time stepping outside of their comfort zone, but once they have seen some examples of visual verbal journals and spend time considering their perspective and vision, they should be ready to get started. Here are some tips to give them as they begin the project:

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different mediums to explore things like color, texture, and patterns.
Consider layering words, sketches, and images to create a more complex image and feeling.
Change up the writing. Choose to include different fonts, sizes, colors, and even languages.

More Sketchbook Art Projects

Creating a visual verbal journal can be as simple as including sketches and descriptions. The look, feel, and experience of the journal is completely up to the individual. If you’re looking for more ideas for ways to challenge your students with the use of sketchbooks or journals, check out these other lesson plans: