Matryoshka Dolls

Lesson Summary

Matryoshka dolls, also known as Russian nesting dolls, are a traditional Russian art form that features a set of wooden dolls of decreasing size placed one inside another. In this engaging art lesson, students will explore the cultural significance and artistic techniques involved in creating these charming dolls. They will design and paint their own set of nesting dolls, focusing on detail, pattern, and color.

Lesson Objectives:

Understand the historical and cultural background of Matryoshka dolls.
Learn techniques for painting on a three-dimensional surface.
Develop skills in creating intricate patterns and designs with acrylic paints.

Teachers Note: This is a two week lesson. Separate grades will be given on planning a design concept and the painted Matryoshka dolls.

Matryoshka dolls, also known as Russian nesting dolls or babushka dolls, are a traditional Russian folk art form that originated in the late 19th century. Each set consists of a series of wooden dolls, decreasing in size, placed one inside the other. Traditionally, the outermost doll is a woman dressed in a Russian peasant dress, while the inner dolls can vary in design and often include both male and female figures. The dolls are intricately painted with vibrant colors and detailed patterns, often depicting scenes from Russian folklore, fairy tales, or daily life. Matryoshka dolls symbolize family, fertility, and the unity of generations, making them a cherished cultural icon and a popular souvenir.

What You’ll Need
Wooden Matryoshka dolls (blank, unpainted sets)
Pencil & eraser, Color Markers
Fine-tipped black permanent markers
Matryoshka doll printable template
Acrylic paints
Paintbrushes
Palette for mixing colors
Water Bucket for rinsing brushes

Discussion

What do you know about Matryoshka dolls and their origins?
Can you identify any elements that are unique to Matryoshka dolls?
How can color and pattern influence the design of your Matryoshka dolls?
You are free to choose the theme for your Matryoshka dolls. Do you have any theme ideas for your nesting dolls?
What are some ways to make each of the dolls in the set unique yet cohesive with the others?

Printable Template: Matryoshka Doll

What you do

Step 1: Design Planning

Look at examples of both traditional and contemporary designs to gather inspiration.
On your Matryoshka doll printable template, sketch out your design ideas for the dolls. Think about the theme, patterns, and colors that will unify your set of dolls while allowing for individual variations.

Step 2: Pencil Drawing

Lightly sketch your main design onto the blank wooden dolls using a pencil. Plan the placement of details and patterns carefully.

Step 3: Outlining with Fine-Tipped Markers

Using a fine-tipped black permanent marker, outline the prominent details of the design.

Step 4: Painting

Using paintbrushes, begin painting the details and patterns onto the dolls. Use a variety of colors and patterns, and pay attention to symmetry and balance in your design.

Step 5: Layering and Refining

Apply additional layers of paint to add depth and vibrancy to your designs. Allow each layer to dry completely before adding the next to avoid smudging.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once all the paint is dry, review your dolls and make any necessary refinements.
Add small details and touch-ups to ensure each doll looks polished and cohesive with the rest of the set.

*Teachers Notes

Lesson Wrap-Up: Display the completed Matryoshka dolls and have a discussion about the different design choices made by each student. Discuss what they learned about working with three-dimensional surfaces and how they overcame any challenges.

Reflection: Ask students to reflect on the process of creating their Matryoshka dolls. What did they enjoy most? What was the most challenging part? How did they ensure their set of dolls was cohesive with a theme yet unique?

Student Artwork: Matryoshka dolls

Terminology

Matryoshka Doll: A set of wooden dolls of decreasing size placed one inside another.

Folk Art: Traditional art made by everyday people, often reflecting their culture, community, and heritage. It includes handmade crafts, decorations, and storytelling through art

Acrylic Paint: A fast-drying paint made of pigment suspended in acrylic polymer emulsion.

Pattern: A repeated decorative design.

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