James Rizzi has left his mark on the world. His amazing illustrations has made an indelible impression on me and my students. Last Fall, my sixth graders did a unit on James Rizzi which included Faces and Simple Birds. This time we had fun with James Rizzi Inspired Skyscrapers. This is a super easy lesson for older students. 100% fun and successful.
The technique is simple: oil pastel and watercolors. I explained the technique here and used the same 2012 James Rizzi Wall Calendar 
I think it’s important to use watercolor paper, no matter what the quality, as that is what makes the project so vibrant. If you use regular construction paper, the watercolor paints soaks into the paper fibers which would result in a dull appearance. Also, make sure to press hard with the black oil pastel.
The drawing is easy for older students. Instead of straight rectangular buildings, students added curved lines and interesting shapes as a substitute. A few pictures of any James Rizzi skyscraper art is all students need to be inspired!
Aren’t these wonderful. This lesson didn’t take long; just two, 50 minute classes. It helps to use small watercolor paper (9 x 12) to aid in the rapid completion of the project.
Sixth Grade Skyscrapers…
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I LOVE this project and went online to purchadse a calendar of my own
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/3832751459/ref=olp_product_details?ie=UTF8&me=&seller=
They are seliing for 3000
THREE THOUSAND dollars for a wall calendar – am I missing something?
These are just beautiful, Patty! Ihaven’t done a Rizzi project yet, but I think this one would be a great way to start. Thanks for the tutorial/photo’s. It really helps when lesson plannig.
Pat
WOW!!! I love these Patty! Will have to purchase some new watercolor paper!
This is a fantastic idea!!!! My Art Club ages range from 5 years to 10 so always on the look out for a VERY flexible project!
Love these! My third grades would have a blast with this artist! Started gathering info on him so I can develop a lesson plan for them! So sad to learn he recently passed away so young. Thanks for sharing!