Yayoi Kusama inspired Pumpkins

My 7th graders learned about the 90 year-old Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Kusama is known for pumpkins, polka dots and infinity net patterns. First the students observed small pumpkins and drew them showing value in pencil. Then they observed larger, unusual shaped pumpkins  and drew them, adding Kusama inspired patterns. They created an infinity net background pattern by etching with combs on foil and put the compositions together. 

The Memory Project Refugee Portraits Part Two

This year my family and friends participated in The Memory Project portrait work. The organization sends photos of refuge children to paint portraits for the children as a one a few keepsakes from their very chaotic childhood. It's extremely gratifying to complete these and we are signed up for round three.

New Job! New School Year Bulletin Board Inspiration

I love decorating Bulletin Boards. My new co-teachers were happy to let me create these fun murals for Open House. Our school mascot is a Pelican and our motto is P.R.I.D.E. (When students are prepared, respectful, involved and determined in all areas of school, the results are excellent! )

This bulletin board features Inspirational Artists' Quotes. 

Kindergarten Frida Kahlo inspired Watermelons

Nothing says summer more than Watermelon! I brought in a lovely round melon and a big pyramid-shaped watermelon slice for the students to observe. We read a book about Frida Kahlo and looked at some of her still life paintings, especially Viva la VidaWatermelons. The students painted a patterned round watermelon and then slice shapes as well. The watermelon paintings were cut out and the students composed a still life composition with other painted papers from the school year. 

5th grade watercolor technique practice with geodes

Kindergarten Abstract Flowers

In Art Class, we read a book about the young life of American Abstract Expressionist and Colorist Helen Frankenthaler. Inspired by her art and the book’s illustrations, the students painted free form flowers and garden scenes using brightly colored watercolors.

8th Grade Legacy Project Silk Painting and More

Through a special grant this year, I had the opportunity to work with the 8th graders on a special project to revamp our chapel and make it more "user friendly." A student-led creative problem-solving process resulted in some great ideas. We spent many art classes painting eight 6x18 foot silk panels to create new curtains to fill the room with light and color. The students also painted a special bookshelf, ordered new lighting, and created a tablecover for the lecturn. 

Use this QR code to see a video if the curtain being installed and the 8th graders' reaction.