Mezen is one of the earliest forms of Russian folk art, and it is lovely. It is named after the Mezen River, which is in the area where this style of art originated. Traditionally painted by men, it consists of patterns and geometric designs, horses, and geese or hens. It usually has only the colors red and black. Black paint was derived from coal, and the red paint from clay that ran along the river. In our art class, we first sketched about six different geometric designs, then four types of trees, two birds, and one horse. The students then spent time designing their own Mezen work of art. Here are the results.
This class is offered through Abiding Peace Virtual School and is held every Friday from 11:00-12:00 EST. The next semester begins in January and is open to both adults and high school students.
