Experimenting with Pirate and Viking Ships in Art
Looking for a great craft to end the year with? Holly, Maryland art teacher and blogger, provides a fun, whimsical art project that your third and fourth graders will love! Here's how to create your very own pirate and Viking ships!
Supplies You'll Need
- Watercolor paper
- Watercolor paints
- Assorted colors of construction paper
- Craft glue
- Oil pastel sets
Before beginning, it will be important to note the differences between the two types of ships. Holly lists two main distinctions: 1) Viking ships usually had a single sail whereas pirate ships had several and 2) Viking ships were generally shaped like a dragon while pirate ships were traditionally shaped with many embellishments.
Directions for the Project:
- Begin with a piece of watercolor paper, using 'ocean colored' watercolors to paint the entire sheet. Set aside to dry.
- Draw and cut out the shape of the boat from heavy brown cardboard or construction paper.
- Design and cut sails from scrap pieces of construction paper.
- Arrange and adhere the boat to a piece of construction paper. Tear the dry watercolor paper into pieces and collage them around the boat to create a dynamic ocean.
- Once the glue has dried, use oil pastels to embellish the artwork. Adding sea creatures, icons on the sails, a sun and sky, and other appropriate items.