7th Period Drawing from Observation

This quarter, 7th period focused on fundamental drawing skills. They began the quarter with blind contour drawings and small observational studies in their sketchbooks. After studying basic drawing skills, the students moved to learning how to shade by blending graphite. Students helped set up a still life in class. Then they used the IPads to photograph a variety of angles to help create an dynamic composition

Used the grid to help place the objects on the page

And used careful observation to capture the highlights and shadows.

It took longer to complete than I originally thought, but well worth it! The results are fabulous!!!! Here is one example a finished drawing.
The rest can be found on the artsonia gallery by clicking HERE

Fall Pumpkins

The K-3rd grade enjoyed getting ready for Thanksgiving by observing and painting pumpkins. We talked about the highlights and shadows on the pumpkins. We also talked about different painting techniques and how to blend watercolors on the paper. Students learned that they could use dots to create a different texture than the pumpkin. We also enjoyed allowing the ends of the brush to dance and twirl along the sky like a ballerina.

Here's Brooke's from Kindergarten. Great Job Brooke!!!!!!
All of the projects can be seen on the Artsonia Gallery. (Just click the word Artsonia, and it will take you there)

Have a Great Thanksgiving!!!!!

Another reason to love Artsonia!

This weekend I received this little gem in the mail!!!!!












Such a nice little thing that grandparents and loved ones can do to show love and support to your child even if they do live 20 hours away! (I'm not exactly from Nebraska....)




It made me smile. It also made me realize that the time it takes to upload images of student work is worth it.

Awesome Color blending App!!! BLENDOKU

I stop by one of my favorite Art Education blogs (The Art of Education) each day to get useful tips for my classroom. Last week they posted about a few IPad apps, and I'm so glad I took the time to read the post!

If you're looking for an educational art app that is also fun and WARNING: ADDICTING, then Blendoku is a Must!!!! Did I mention it's also FREE?!?!?

Here is a screen shot of a simple color blend. It ranges from easy to difficult....

A little tougher.....

Give it a try!!!!!! 

Learn more at 

http://www.blendoku.com/

(I know I just sounded like an Ad for this App, but I think it's AWESOME!)

Jr. High Giant Color Wheel

Jr. High started the first part of the quarter working on color theory. Students used primary colors only to make all the colors of the color wheel.

Happy Pile of Colors

 After students experienced mixing all the colors and painting small squares, students broke up into groups. Each group was assigned a color on the color wheel. They identified the correct squares,

tore the squares into small pieces for variety...... 

and glued the squares down to a large posterboard triangle.

After the triangles were complete, the students had to use their knowledge of color mixing to complete the color wheel.....

 

The RESULT!!! ONE GIANT COLOR WHEEL!!!!!!!!!!!

Masks Inspired by Egyptian Burial Masks

Sixth Graders are finished with their Egyptian Inspired burial masks. Students began with a basic sketch of their ideas.

Then we used plastic forms and got messy with paster gauze!

Once the masks hardened, students cut shapes from poster board scraps to add crowns, headdresses, collars, etc....

After the additions were made, the masks were sprayed with Gold Spray paint and the students used acrylic paints to add details.

Noah's Mask

Students Used the IPads to Post their work to Artsonia.

All the Masks as well as the rest of the Egyptian Inspired artwork may be viewed on our Artsonia  gallery.