2nd grade Jasper Johns Numbers

This is one of those projects that always turns out spectacular (in my humble opinion). My second graders completed this project for our school-wide art show and they were a hit! We learned about warm and cool color families in order to fill our compositions with color ("ghost lines" were added to the background in white oil pastel before painting). Students had to take ownership for the numbers they chose to highlight in their work by making sure that each number represented them in some special way.

Kindergarten Ginormous Cupcakes

Who doesn't love a cupcake?! My kindergartners had a wonderful time creating these ginormous cupcakes onto 12x18 pastel colored paper (inspired by Wayne Thiebaud). For the collage, students began by drawing and cutting out a cupcake holder using manila paper. A set of stripes was added across this shape using pencil. Next, the icing....chocolate or vanilla? Each child drew a rainbow as big as possible onto a piece of 9x12 paper and cut it out. A cherry was added to the top if desired and we allowed them to dry.
The following week, we talked all about the art of Wayne Thiebaud, who is known for painting everyday objects, but mainly sweet treats. We added lots of sprinkles by snipping apart colorful strips of paper. Yum!

1st grade Matisse Interiors

I really enjoy the work of Henri Matisse. I find that his artwork really lifts my spirits, especially his interiors. My students worked so hard to create their own interiors in the style of Matisse using pattern, shape and composition. They even added a window with an outside view as part of the overall collage. This was a challenge for the kids, but they proved successful!