Friday, December 8, 2017

The beginnings of the steampunk unit--exploring the possibilities in media (drawing, wire, and sewing, to start!)


So, we are embarking on a HUGE steampunk unit... which began by the introduction of Steampunk and its "ethos."  Students were then introduced to the 3 "stations" that they can choose to go deep in for their final projects.  Before beginning the finals, we have "explore days" in each of the stations where everyone gets a chance to try each one out and get a feel for it.  That's what we've been doing, and a lot of the students have been surprised at what they could do. 

Next week:  Using the artistic process to plan, execute and present a steampunk artwork!
Here are the goals/expectations for each station:
1.  Drawing mechanimals or inventions-- coffee/tea stained paper, 5 shades of gray, working LED circuitry, steampunk "ethos"
2.  Small sculpture or jewelry--appropriate craftsmanship with wire or other materials (hot glue as last resort),  intricate--small, complex details, if a series, visually linking, and steampunk "ethos"
3. Wearable art--needs to be worn, strong craftsmanship in all choice of media, steampunk "ethos"

Can't wait to see where everyone goes...














Tuesday, November 7, 2017

Monday, October 23, 2017

Art, curriculum and the grading process!!!

Last year, I wrote an in depth blog post on my philosophy of grading and the teaching of art, which is still pertinent.  To read on click here.

Tuesday, October 17, 2017

Conferencing/Connecting/Open house!

What a strange year it has been in terms of transitions!  With a new art teacher, as well as a new administration, we have been working to streamline and rearrange communications and "open house" days, etc.  I believe more change is in store for next year :)

I would love to meet and connect with you all and therefore will be having "open house" hours in the art room next week--feel free to swing by, say "hi" and talk.   If I am not in my room, I will be next door working on communications/blogging and art shows with my fellow art teachers.

I will be available:

Tuesday Oct 24, from 4:30-6:30 and Wed, Oct 25 and Thurs Oct 26, from 3-4:30.  I hope this works for some of you!

Monday, October 9, 2017

Project number 1: Artbooks!


Project number 1 in the artroom:  completed (or mostly.  Some are demonstrating amazing perserverance and focus in finishing stellar books)!  Students created artbooks about themselves.  The 6th grade completed theirs in the style of a CHINESE PUZZLE BOOK (complete with secret compartment that I don't understand), and 7th graders executed 3-dimensional TUNNEL BOOKS.  I never cease to be amazed by the time, effort, and creativity they pour into their work.  The process required thoughtful planning: mapping how it will be made and where everything will go, prepping paper/backgrounds, working on foregrounds, and then building the books--a huge endeavor for a first project.  They really are amazing!  Swing by: they are in the display case by the artrooms and also in the library.  I snapped a few shots below: