In the MIS art room, we began the 2016 school year with many exciting and colorful projects. The K- 4 students studied the artwork and lives of Dale Chihuly, Alexander Calder, and Eric Carle.
4th grade
After observing the wide variety of Chihuly sculptures, the students engaged in fun lessons and activities to help them understand the difference between organic and geometric shapes and forms.
For their final project, they created colorful, organic forms inspired by a mixture of nature and imagination. They began with 4 design sketches, then added color to their favorite ones. Next, they used paper and masking tape to create the internal structure of their form, and then wrapped it with foil in order to manipulate it’s shape. That was the most challenging step, but they all worked through their challenges by adapting their designs, adding extra supports, and embracing the artistic process. In the end, they all look amazing and the uniqueness of each individual student really shines through.
The sculptures can be seen around the entrance of the building and in the main level Library.
3rd Grade
The third graders began the school year learning about the colorful prints of Alexander Calder. Inspired by the prints, they created their own paintings that showcased line, shape, and color as the main subjects, while paying close attention to their own painting techniques. They did a great job selecting from two different sized brushes and using them properly to paint as neatly as possible. (Don’t worry, there will be time for messy paintings later.)
After their first painting, they observed the colorful mobiles of Calder while we discussed visual balance. Then, they drew 4 design sketches of their own mobile and colored their favorite ones. They chose one to create with wire, and tried their best to work from their design. Finally, they used clear packaging tape and sharpie markers to add color and define the wire shapes.
The completed mobiles can be found hanging from the windows at the front of the building.
The paintings will be sent home soon.
Currently, the students are working on colorful hanging lanterns, inspired by Dale Chihuly’s Basket series. The completed baskets can be seen hanging from the upper level balconies, around the school.
2nd Grade
In second grade, the students began the year learning about line, shape, and color, selected prints and paintings of Alexander Calder. Next, they practiced using colored pencils and created their own abstract works of art, inspired by Calder.
The second grade students then participated in several lessons and art activities to review what they know about the color wheel, drew their own version of a color wheel, and practiced painting in the lines with watercolors.
The students then began learning about Dale Chihuly and his glass sculptures. They observed the colorful organic shapes of his Sea Form series and created their own sea forms using coffee filters, markers, and tissue paper. They will be displayed around their 2nd grade classroom.
1st Grade
The first grade students began the school year drawing, coloring, cutting, and glueing a variety of lines, to develop their understanding of one of the most important elements of art. Next, they began learning about the artist and artwork of Eric Carle. After reading the book, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” they learned how he makes his own paper and how he uses his own paper to create new collage images. The students then enjoyed creating their beautiful butterflies.
Their butterflies can be seen by the Art Hall.
Kindergarten
The Kindergarteners enjoyed learning all about the different elements of art and participating in several activities to support their understanding. We then started learning about the stories and artwork of Eric Carle and how he makes is own paper and collages. The students went through several steps to create their own amazing caterpillars, and then helped to create the sun, ground, and leaves under them.
