Impressionism ala Monet, created by Elementary II

EII students studied the works of Impressionist artist Claude Monet.  We focused on his quick style, use of color and texture, in order to capture the effects of ever changing light on a scene.  Students chose an image to work from if desired, and were encouraged to work quickly, as if they only had moments to get their work on paper.  Students loved being told to "switch off your brains" so that they could stop thinking in terms of drawing objects, and instead focus on blending colors and creating gorgeous textures.

Camouflaged Critters! by Elementary I

EI students had a blast discussing patterns found in nature, from tree rings to the petals of a flower.  We also discussed how these natural patterns are beneficial to other living creatures in the form of camouflage.  Students got right to work sketching out various patterns, focusing on repetition, variation, and movement in their designs.  Once the patterns were complete, students added a creature of their choice to camouflage in their artwork.  Enjoy! 

Faith Ringgold inspired Story Quilts, by Children's House!

Earlier this year, Children's House students learned about the artist Faith Ringgold. Faith lived in Harlem, New York, and was influenced by the stories of her friends, family, and neighbors.  She worked hard to earn recognition for African American artists of all types.  Her mother, a popular fashion designer, influenced Faith to create art out fabric.  Faith especially loved to tell stories.  One of her famous story quilts, Tar Beach, was also turned into a children's book.  Students created their own Tar Beach story quilt after reading Tar Beach and learning a bit more about Faith Ringgold's life.
Students created the Brooklyn Bridge and a starry night sky before creating an overlapping cityscape collage.  The final touches were to add fabric for our quilts and each artist flying through the city.