Some mornings, I go to work anticipating a tough day and it is often these days that the children amaze me. I taught Joan Miró and Surrealism today. At first, the students didn't seem to understand that there are varying levels of abstraction in art. After taking a half sheet of leftover paper and laying down a watercolor wash in the colors of their choice, students were asked to obscure a subject (person, place, animal, etc.) in a pencil sketch. The challenge was they had to create their subject using 3 particular elements in their work: bold lines, black dots and geometric shapes. I repeated the directions again and again, explaining in as many ways as I could. The hard work paid off! I'd say the kids were REALLY successful:
The second assignment of the day was the "Paper Bag Safari" and students had to draw wildlife that is not indigenous to our area. We used charcoal pencils and blending tools to get a nice rustic look. Once again, the kids shocked me with their talents. These are some of my favorite projects of the summer. See for yourself! Student comments follow pics.
"I love working with charcoal because it really emphasizes what you are working on."
(A personal favorite comment:)
"Working in the style of Miró lets you put your feelings into your drawings."
"I really don't prefer abstract art."
"Abstract art allows you to color outside the lines!"
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