 Born in 1928 in New York City.  She is still alive today.  She had a lot of money growing up.  Every month she received a magazine called “ Child Life ”. It had hidden picture puzzles that she loved.

After high school Helen wanted to study art and painting. She was exposed to many styles of art. Do you think it would be confusing to have teachers with very different ideas on art? Tamayo Picasso

 She met famous artist Jackson Pollack  He was her inspiration  Abstract Impressionism  Splatter Art

 She invented “ soak and stain ” method.  She would pour the paint onto the canvas instead of using a brush and leave the splatter marks and drips to show the process of her work. “Smalls Paradise” – About a Jazz bar in Harlem. Do you feel like you are swimming in the painting?

Can you see how the paint was poured onto the canvas and allowed to soak in?

 Abstract  Expressionism  Avant garde  Overpainting  Soak Stain Painting  Negative space

What is the subject of this painting? What do you think Helen was trying to convey in this painting? What is the mood? What types of shapes are presented in this painting? What colors do you see? Why is the color “blue” in the title?

“Seeing the Moon” What colors do you see? What shapes do you see? How does this make you feel? Do you see the moon?

“Mirabelle” What is the first thing you think of when you look at this painting? Where did she pour paint?

What would you call these paintings?

Look how big her paintings are!!!

Compare prints

Project Supplies and process  Muslin fabric 12 x 12  Paint in squeeze bottles (3 colors per person)  Spray bottle with water  Four students at a time will do the project out in the common area  Everyone else will do the art puzzles until it is their turn!