African Masks in 6th Grade Wheel

In our previous unit, we discussed how Pablo Picasso was inspired by African art.

Here, students used African art as their own source of inspiration.

Before starting the project, we went over masks and their various functions in African culture.

We also talked about the elements of art that distinguish African masks from those of other cultures.

While creating their masks, students had to consider how pattern, color, and shape are used in African masks.

They were so excited to wear them around class!

Paper Mache Sculptures from Art Appreciation

 7th and 8th graders just completed their paper mache sculptures. 

Students were allowed to work alone or in groups to create these sculptures.

They began the process by developing a superhero or villain character and writing a short backstory.

After sketching and writing, students made busts of their characters out of paper, tape, cardboard, and glue.

Once the sculptures were dry, they were painted and fine details were added.

I am so proud of what they were able to accomplish.

I love coming into class and seeing all of these guys staring at me from the cabinets.

6th Grade Wheel: Picasso Inspired Mixed Media Collages

During our unit on Picasso, we took a look at his collage work.

Students then created a mixed-media collage inspired by his work.

Each student had to choose an instrument and create a piece that abstractly represented it. 

The challenge to students was to basically strip down each instrument into basic shapes and rearrange them into a piece of artwork. They took the challenge head on.

We discussed sound and how certain colors, shapes, and lines can be associated with those sounds.

Instrument of inspiration: Harp

Instrument of inspiration: Trumpet

Instrument of inspiration: Violin

Instrument of inspiration: Guitar

Instrument of inspiration: Saxophone

Instrument of inspiration: Banjo 

(This student incorporated articles about Al Capone and the stories of his banjo playing in Alcatraz. 

Very creative.)

Instrument of inspiration: Piano

Instrument of inspiration: Harp

Pastel Still Life Drawings in Art Appreciation

Here are some of the great still life drawing 7th and 8th graders did.

Students had 5 different still life set-ups to draw from.    

   

Cubist Portraits from 6th grade wheel students

6th graders recently completed a unit on Pablo Picasso.

For this project, each student had to create a Cubist inspired portrait of their partner.

Prior to starting the project, we discussed the life and art of Spanish artist, Pablo Picasso. 

Then we talked about characteristics of Cubism. 

Key characteristics students had to mimic in their art where, portraying multiple viewpoints in one image and using simplified, geometric shapes.

A Valentines Day miracle

Michelle Jean-Paul Washpriceburn was found! She was rescued and is once again a part of our class.

Saying goodbye to a furry friend...

Students were mourning the loss of Michelle Jean Paul Washpriceburn, the giraffe.

She was a special part of our class...for a few days. 

MJPW was lost after flying out a school bus window.

Our furry friend was scheduled to be in this mock American Gothic photo, but was replaced by a lamb.

She will be dearly missed, but we welcome our new friend with open arms.