Stained Glass Inspired.

As we study Europe this quarter, I thought it would be fun for 3rd graders to do a project inspired by stained glass.  Line, texture, color, unity, and abstract were all terms we studied in preparation for this project.  To make our own version of stained glass, each student was given a 6"x 8" piece of recycled cardboard.  Next, each student had to plan a design using yarn, and then glued that yarn design to their board.  Using tin foil to cover their cardboard, students had to gently feel for their yarn lines and rub around them to emboss their lines in the tin foil.  We used Sharpie markers to give each section color.  The students loved this project because it used a variety of materials, and each student's piece came out wonderfully!

Abstract Shapes.

Recently kindergarten and 1st grade have learned what the term "abstract" means, and how it is different from "realism." Next we talked about shape and color, and how those can help us express emotions in art.  I would start by saying something like, "I'm thinking of a angry color." And a student might respond, "Red!" or "Black!" Then I would follow up with a question like, "Would an angry shape have sharp edges, soft edges, or both?" (In this instance, most students responded with, "Sharp!")  Then we would add that shape to our paper.  By the end, we had a painting full of beautiful, colorful shapes!

Expression through art can be a difficult thing to grasp, but these students did a fabulous job!  Students were able to paint a variety of "emotions" in this abstract project.  After the paintings were dry, I had the students outline their shapes with pastel and mount them on black paper -- which lead to a great conversation on artistic craftsmanship.  I love the way this project turned out.