Sonia Delaunay Abstract Watercolor Lesson for Middle & High School Art: Teaching Non-Objective Art with Color and Movement
Sonia Delaunay Inspired Abstract Watercolor Lesson
If you’re looking for a way to teach abstract watercolor and non-objective art in a way that engages students, this lesson inspired by Sonia Delaunay is a classroom favorite.
Middle and high school students love working with watercolor, and this project channels that excitement into a meaningful lesson on color relationships, composition, and the principle of movement. The result? Bold, vibrant circle paintings that look incredible on display while reinforcing essential art concepts.
CLICK HERE for the full lesson!
Quick Question
Q: How do you explain abstract or non-objective art to students?
A: Start by explaining that abstract art doesn’t show real objects—it focuses on color, shape, and design instead. Have students look at how colors and shapes move their eyes around the artwork. Keeping it visual and discussion-based makes abstract art much easier to understand.
Why This Lesson Works
Abstract art can feel confusing at first, but this lesson breaks it down in a clear, approachable way. Students focus on circles, curved lines, and color, which keeps the process simple while still producing sophisticated results.
The watercolor technique practice is key. Before starting their final piece, students experiment with wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, gradient blends, drop-in color, and mixing on canvas. This gives them confidence and helps prevent frustration during the final painting.
At the same time, students explore how artists in Orphism used color relationships to create rhythm and movement, making the lesson both hands-on and art history connected.
What Students Learn
In this lesson, students practice:
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Using watercolor techniques (wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, gradient blending, drop-in color, mixing on canvas)
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Creating abstract, non-objective compositions
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Using color relationships to create movement
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Designing with repetition and circular shapes
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Applying the principle of movement
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Making thoughtful artistic decisions
How the Lesson Flows
This lesson is designed to build confidence step-by-step.
Students begin by learning about Sonia Delaunay and analyzing how color and shape create movement in her work. Four cards of painting analysis are included with the lesson.
Next, they complete a watercolor technique practice sheet, experimenting with different ways paint and water interact. This handout will help them learn how to apply watercolor techniques.
Finally, students create their finished artwork:
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Dividing the paper using straight lines
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Drawing overlapping circles directly in permanent marker
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Applying a variety of watercolor techniques
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Filling the entire page with color and movement
Materials You’ll Need
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Watercolor paper
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Watercolor paints
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Brushes
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Water cups
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Paper towels
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Permanent marker
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Circular objects for tracing
Simple materials, big impact.
Classroom Tips
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Encourage students to vary the size of their circles for a more dynamic composition
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Remind students to fully fill the page—no empty white spaces
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Have students plan color combinations before painting
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Demonstrate each watercolor technique slowly and clearly
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Reassure students that blending and unpredictability are part of watercolor
Final Results
This lesson consistently produces colorful, high-impact artwork that students are excited to share. The bold shapes and vibrant watercolor effects make these pieces perfect for classroom or hallway displays.
Even better, students walk away with a stronger understanding of abstract art, watercolor techniques, and how color can create movement and rhythm.
CLICK HERE for the full lesson!
If you’re looking for a lesson that blends art history, technique, and creative expression, this Sonia Delaunay–inspired abstract watercolor project is a must. It’s easy to teach, highly engaging, and delivers beautiful results every time.