CHINESE LANDSCAPES

Our updated Art Course of Study has assigned a continent of focus for each grade level. Asia has been the focus for fifth grade and we've had fun learning about this ancient culture. 

Chinese landscapes were a great way to show students new techniques for creating. We began by tearing some manila paper so that it resembled mountains.  This was a controlled tear in that we twisted and tore the paper in the desired direction. If you tear the paper against the grain, this works great. Black chalk was added on the torn edge and black was pushed vertically to emulate silk. Students then traded papers with a friend for variety and continued to do 3-4 more layers, being careful to add less chalk so that each layer was a little lighter. We used the paper towel to soften the sky so that it wasn't so stark white.  We were going for a peaceful, foggy/misty look. 

Branches were added and next we began the cherry blossoms. I gave each table magenta and white paint that was only slightly mixed. They used the eraser end of a pencil to print the blossoms. The finishing touch was their names written with Chinese characters. 

To introduce this lesson, we talked about these types of paintings being created to instill peace to the viewer during tumultuous times. We also discussed to cherry trees in Washington D.C. being a gift from Japan to help to build a better relationship between the countries.

MONOCHROMATIC LANDSCAPES

This lesson covers several objectives. It addresses space, value, perspective and atmospheric perspective, as well as tints and shades. I was even able to introduce Picasso's Blue Period! These eager third graders learned how easy it is to paint trees. Everyone is happy! 

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS

FIRE SAFETY POSTER CONTEST

Every year students are urged to participate in a poster contest sponsored by our local fire department. The goal of the project id to promote fire safety. We begin in class and discuss the importance of having a plan, having working batteries in smoke dectors as well as other important aspects involving fire safety. I am hopeful that this might begin conversations at home. This year one of our students won first place in the district! His art was chosen from over 250 entries. Way to go, friend!

GVES HOLIDAY 

CARD

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL 

HOLIDAY CARD DESIGN WINNERS

PATTERNED OWLS

We talk about and use patterns a lot during the first grade year. Here is a fun example of pattern combined with painting skills. We used metallic markers to add some pizazz.

KOI FISH

Part of our art curriculum involves a focus on other continents and countries within. It's always interesting to "visit" other cultures and investigate various styles of art. Our fifth grade students looked at Asian art and specifically looked at Koi fish.I like the idea of the koi because of the symbolism involved. Koi fish represent perseverance in adversity, strength of purpose, and courage.

We did a directed drawing on day one and then began color. We used chalk pastel and water to create gradations of color. Water lilies, which symbolize rebirth and optimism, and cherry blossoms were added.  The cherry trees in Washington D.C. were a gift from Japan to celebrate the friendship between the two countries.