Sgraffito is a word derived from the Italian word “graffiare”, which means “to scratch”. In Pompeii, you can see graffiti scratched on the walls showing peoples opinions/ideas/thoughts. Similar techniques have been used down over time such as architecture, plaster decoration, ceramics and fine art paintings from ancient times to the present.

Sgraffito is an excellent way to make the finest of lines with oil pastel and is particularly useful to add surface decoration or fine detail, or to add texture to a rather flat area. In this program, students will recreate a still life image using the sgraffito technique.

It’s also a fun way to draw with unconventional tools, such as a plastic comb or flexible palette knife.