CD Covers

Sixth grade students were lead through an incredible painting/portrait lesson by our very talented student teacher, Ms. Richardson. 

Ms. Richardson showed the students many examples of artistic album covers, and pop art portraits.  Students were limited to four colors, with black being the final addition.  Composition, symbolism, and color placement were all important consideration in these fantastic paintings.

At the end of the project, the class participated in a positive peer critique, or "gallery walk" as we call it.  It's always encouraging to see and hear kids at this age be able to appreciate eachother's talents. 

Peter Max inspired paintings

Welcome back from Spring Break!

Prior to break our talented 8th graders learned about the popular artist, Peter Max.  Peter Max was made famous by his work with the legendary Beatles.  His artwork is characterized by bright, vivid colors and lots of repeated symbols.  Middle school students seem to "get" his artwork and like the use of hearts, stars, and peace signs.  I challenged the students to create a Peter Max-like artwork using their hands (either traced or to challenge themselves by drawing from life) and to use symbols to create a personal theme in their work.  We experimented with different water-color techniques (wet into wet, dry brush, gradations, salt etc..), but some students found watercolor a very challenging medium to control.  Overall, I think the results turned out stunning.