Teaching the basics of composition through the analysis of works by the Peredvizhniki artists in the system of supplementary education for children. Theoretical aspect.

Abstract

The article presents a theoretical substantiation of the methodology for teaching the basics of composition to middle school age students in the system of supplementary education for children on the basis of the analysis of works by the Peredvizhniki artists. The author proceeds from the contradiction between the considerable pedagogical potential of Russian realist painting of the 19th century and the insufficient development of specific methods of its use in fine art classes at Houses of Children's Creativity. The paper reveals the features of the art of the Association of Travelling Art Exhibitions as a pedagogical resource: the narrative and plot-based character of the paintings, the realism and recognisability of what is depicted, the clarity and deliberateness of compositional solutions. Compositional techniques in the works of V.G. Perov, A.K. Savrasov and I.I. Shishkin are analysed in detail; it is shown that each of the masters can serve as an exemplary bearer of a particular compositional principle: V.G. Perov – of the compositional centre and dramaturgy, A.K. Savrasov – of rhythm, spatial planes and mood, I.I. Shishkin – of balance and integrity. The hypothesis is substantiated that teaching the basics of composition is more effective when works by the Peredvizhniki are used systematically in combination with practical creative tasks and with reliance on the principles of visual demonstration, dialogue and game-based technologies. Directions for the further development of the cycle of lessons «Fundamentals of composition. The Peredvizhniki» are outlined.