Project: Cultural Mask Research & Sculptural Design Students studied the stories of a variety of cultural uses of masks throughout history. They learned that masks are used as protection, tools of anonymity, in ceremony, ritual, and as transformative devices. We spoke about the power of the image and set out to find a traditional use of masks that reflected the power of the image. Students spent time researching the culture of their choice and then used those insights to construct a mask in its style. Using a variety of mixed media including paper mache, recycled materials, styrofoam, wire, tissue, foil, paint, etc., students have worked to make a collection of unique, powerfully symbolic, well-crafted masks. Check out some of the Visual Notes & final masks below.
Project: Iterative Artwork - Arabesque Tile Printmaking After studying the Golden Age of Islamic culture which last from 800-1300 AD, students generated their own intricate arabesque designs through symmetrical repetition and used these designs to practice printmaking. This art process allows students to make a nearly infinite number of copies of an artwork, so that students are able to practice refining the process and their craftsmanship. The best four prints are selected, trimmed, and mounted for display. Check out some of the final works below!
Project: Some Science and History of Clay - Hand-building Vessels Clay compounds compose about 60% of the earth's crust and have been used by humans as far back as perhaps 30,000 years ago. So, it's no wonder that there's a lot to cover regarding clay use. In this unit, we are studying some of the science and history of clay to better understand why and how it can be used in both functional and formal art. After taking Visual Notes on some of the science of clay, students are spending time using hand-building techniques to form open vessels (cups, bowls, vases, etc.). Then, after studying some of the history of clay, students will practice making functional lids and glazing their work. Check out some of the finished projects below.
Project: Non-Objective Abstraction Paintings Building off of what student have been learning about representative abstract art, they are now working on developing two non-objective paintings each. Non-objective artwork does not represent anything other than itself, and thus depends upon craftsmanship and well-designed compositions of line, color, and shapes. This style of work was used by well-known artists including Piet Mondrian, Paul Klee, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Mark Rothko. Students are using various painting and masking techniques to create layers in their two works. Check out some of the finished artworks on display below.
Project: Biomorphic Abstraction - Process & Drawing Students learned about the modern American sculptor, Alexander Calder, and the way he used modern industrial materials to make his mobiles, stabiles, and wire sculptures. They studied his use of biomorphic abstraction (the abstraction of life forms), and used this knowledge to practice abstraction of an an animal, insect, or plant. For this, they used the Design Process which includes the steps of: Ideation, Information, & Presentation. Using brainstorming and sketching to develop their ideas, students then made a realistic study of their object of choice. This study helped them to pull out the essential elements of the object, which were then applied in an abstract design which was intended to communicate the essence of that object. When these were done, students mounted them for a clean presentation of the realistic/abstracted pair of drawings. As a closing activity, student completed a one-day Design Challenge for which they had to use one piece of malleable wire to create an abstract outline of an object. Check out some of the final works below.
Project: Radial Symmetry Name Designs Students learned about the nature, function, and uniqueness of radial symmetry. They learned about its presence in natural forms as well as its effective use as a design element in artworks across time and cultures. From stained glass windows in architecture, to geometric tile work, to sand mandalas, and ancient calendars, radial symmetry is everywhere. Students then worked to design their own radially symmetrical artwork using their names as the base designs. Using graphite transferring techniques, students iterated these designs around a central point to reveal the symmetry and intricate patterns within their designs. Students completed this project by adding color and mounting their final works for display. Self-reflection and group critique will help us bring closure to this first project of the year. Check out some of the final works below!