Benjamin Chee Chee
First Nations Art
Native Canadian Art
Artist:
Benjamin Chee Chee was born in 1944 in Temagami Ontario. He is
most well known for his simple yet beautiful images of birds,
especially the Canada Goose.
Despite being a successful artist, he saddly took his own life at the
age of 33. Chee Chee had a troubled past and had struggled with
alcohol and drug addiction.
He will be remembered for his beautful art that expresses a deep
connection to nature and the Canadian Goose.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benjamin_Chee_Chee
Elements of Art
Line
Shape/Form
Texture
Value
Space
Colour
Art Inspiration: Benjamin Chee Chee
Think about: Line, Shape, Space, Colour and Simplicity
1. Brainstorming (10 min): In your groups think of an animal that you feel a connection with. It
does not have to be Canadian but it should not be a mythical creature. If you are stuck, ask your group
members or Mr. Crone for help. Share with your group.
2. Planning (10 min): Fold a piece of scrap paper in half and in half again making four sections on
the page. In PENCIL plan your art piece (make at least 4 rough copies trying different things). Think
about how you can draw your animal using simple shapes and lines. Think about how to fill the page.
Think of 1 or 2 colours that you would like to add to your piece. Write on the back of the paper how you
plan to use one element of art.
RECESS
3. Creating (20 min): When you have made your plan, bring it up to Mr. Crone and he will give you
a good sheet of paper, 1-2 chalk pastels and a sheet of paper to write
4. Reflection (artist’s statement) (5 min): After finishing your art piece, write 2-3 sentences (or
more if you want to) on why you chose the animal that you did, the connection you feel with the
animal, and what your art represents.
5. GALLERY WALK
See Mr. Crone if you are done early