Pointilism

Invite students to explore the connection between art and science as they study Georges Seurat and the development of pointillism. In this lesson, learners discover how Seurat’s work was influenced by the science of optics and the color theory of his time—specifically the concept of optical mixing, in which tiny dots of pure color blend in the viewer’s eye to form new hues. Students then apply this technique to create their own pointillism-inspired paintings, experimenting with dots, color relationships, and patience to achieve stunning visual effects. This lesson beautifully highlights the intersection of scientific understanding and artistic innovation.