Maps, Art, and Environment: Leonardo da Vinci’s Innovation through Observation

Learn how Leonardo da Vinci’s innovative approach to observation and depiction changed the way art and creativity are used to interpret environments, landscapes, and maps. Students will practice their own observation skills, while also applying geographic literacy to reading and analyzing maps and environmental depictions. Students will watch four documentary clips from Ken Burns, Sarah Burns, and David McMahon’s Leonardo da Vinci that focus on Leonardo’s maps and landscapes, as well as the ways his works influenced the future of artwork. Through guided discussion and creative extension projects, students will respond to an essential question: what do Leonardo da Vinci’s maps and his depictions of landscapes tell us about his world?

About the Author:

Nicole Dobronski was a teacher in the Kansas City area for 12 years, during which she taught 5th, 7th, and 8th grade Social Studies and ELA, as well as 6th-8th Technology. Currently, Nicole is the K-12 Education Specialist at the National WWI Museum and Memorial. Her hobbies are baking, D&D, gaming, reading, and spending time with her cats and partner.