Fifth grade artists who complete their 1-point perspective Cityscapes drawings were given a piece of clay and asked to create a Kindness pendant. We talked about how we could symbolize kindness in a wearable clay pendant. They could create up to 4 pendants, but needed to think about how they could keep one, but GIVE the others. We discussed the importance of spreading kindness in the world, and how we could all use a little more caring in our lives.
Fourth grade artists are planning their earthenware clay pot project by drawing out facial expressions and then modeling them using a non-hardening clay. Practicing and planning in both drawing and forming the facial features will help them in the creation of their final clay Face Pot. First grade artists are learning about Maria Martinez and looking at her amazing Pueblo Pottery. We discussed and learned how Maria made her own earthenware clay and then formed her pots by hand, versus using a potter's wheel. Maria lived in New Mexico and was a part of the Pueblo Indians. Her symbols and designs on the outside of her pots have been used for hundreds of year by her ancestors. Today Maria's family members are still making pottery just like she taught them when she was alive. The tradition of making beautiful pots will continue on as long as it's passed on.
Soon first graders will be making a pinch pot. We will carefully form the earthenware clay by hand to create a functional little pot that can be used to hold all kinds of wonderful things. |
Mrs. Vanderbilt
|