Our kindergarten kiddos learned about creating texture within their forms. We experimented with clay as well as using Model Magic. Color was added to further individualize each product. They created necklaces, ornaments, statues and charms. It was so fun to try out two different materials to create our 3D art works.
In 3rd grade we created our own horizontal/vertical grid. Then we drew a realistic tree trunk within a circle we had created with a compass. We added details to our tree to create a unique trunk & branches. Using oil pastels, we chose warm colors in the circle and cool colors outside our tree following the grid we created. All of us approached the project a little differently which created a very unique "forest" of trees!
In kindergarten, we are learning about line as an element of art. We find lines in famous artworks and each others artwork. We can use actions to demonstrate different types of lines as well as use and recognize lines in our own art. We first practiced line types/styles on white boards then created all 5 types of lines on watercolor paper using crayons. After adding our lines, we learned how to use watercolors and filled in the spaces we created with our lines. We also learned about watercolor resist and how the paint is repelled by the waxy crayons. 
5th graders created a unique, mixed media, fiber art piece. Each student started with a square of cardboard that they painted and then created texture using various non-traditional art tools. They then learned three different string art designs as well as created a few of their own. When dry, we made a circle on the reverse side and punched 16 equally spaced holes on the perimeter. Using art, math and sewing, the students combined the newly learned designs and their individual creations to make a wonderfully, original artwork.
4th graders created Mexican Folk Art Mirrors during Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15). We learned about the history and culture of families that came from Mexico, Spain, Central & South America as well as the Caribbean. We further discussed the numerous ways that Hispanic Americans have contributed and made their mark in the United States. The students created concentric rings, then filled the spaces between with unique patterns. When their design was complete they added color with their choice of tempera cakes, markers, colored pencils or crayons. We added our "mirrors" using styrofoam that we covered in aluminum foil in which we chased/embossed our symmetrical designs. Lastly we put them all together by mounting it on the color paper of our choice. The kiddos learned SO MUCH about Hispanic folk art, carving techniques, balancing patterns, color choices and line design all wrapped up in one awesome composition.
3rd graders learned a new method of creating unique images from patterns that repeat called Zentangles. This new artform is very fun and relaxing to create. The students focus on designing small patterns, within spaces they have produced. We learned to turn our perceived mistakes into beautiful arrangements. As artists, we recognized that balance, color, line, space and contrast work together to produce a successful piece. They look wonderful individually as well as make an interesting, collective installment.
Second graders studied motion and texture in artwork. They created texture on their sculpture base by splattering paint in different colors to create a design of their own. With a colorful, solid base they took different lengths, colors and textures of paper to create a sculpture demonstrating motion. They added "feet" to their sculpture parts to make sure they were stable, then looped, spiraled and intertwined them with each other, until they had a balanced, complete artwork. We became architects, road engineers, playground creators, roller coaster builders and skate park designers all while producing extreme artworks!
