6th grade Symmetrical Name Mandalas

The 6th graders learned about symmetry and radial design.  They also studied different Mandalas from around the world.  They used this new knowledge to create symmetrical name mandalas. Repeating their names in mirror images, they connected their design and created a challenge for the viewer to find their names.  Fantastic job 6th grade!

8th grade graffiti

The 8th graders once again learned about Urban Street Art and graffiti. As always, we discuss at length the legalities of graffiti, and art versus vandalism. After viewing many examples, the students spent a couple of classes brainstorming and sketching ideas. This year we used the idea of Introduction Labels to be the format for the graffiti names.  Many students thought of new "tagger" names and created a graphic theme for their names.

 I know this lesson can sometimes be viewed as controversial, but their are many positive reasons for the kids to learn about graffiti.  It's an artform that many can relate to (and get really excited about) as it is a solely urban, youth driven art.  We take time to look at color, form, and composition of reputable graffiti artists' work, and it really influences the student's artmaking process.

 

For students interested in learning more about graffiti and Urban Art Mr. Neils hosts a Monday after school club called "Urban Arts", please see him.  Locally, there is an organization I've mentioned before:  Milwaukee's True Skool.  They offer many exciting art enrichment programs, including graffiti classes.  Visit their website here.

8TH grade GRAFFITI NAMES

We begin this lesson with a PowerPoint and discuss extensively the legal ramifications of vandalism.  The students debate with each other what is vandalism versus art, and if the two cross categories.  I make sure to stress that no matter how cool or beautiful a work is, if it is created on someone else's property and one doesn't have permission, it is vandalism and is illegal. 

The students then spend a few days practicing different fonts and styles for their names before being approved for final paper.  As the students begin to finish, they help sponge paint the paper for the background bricks.  We also held an amazingly positive class critique.  I was so proud of the insightful and encouraging comments I heard the students give one another.  Stellar job 8th grade!

For any students or parents who are interested in an awesome program that teaches graffiti art and builds teen leadership here locally in Milwaukee, please check out TRUE SKOOL.