Jean Dubuffet Sculptures

After learning about Monument a Fantome, fourth graders used card stock to create their own sculptures based on the sculpture by Jean DuBuffet. 

https://www.discoverygreen.com/monument-au-fantome

Abstract Sculptures

Abstract Sculptures

Fourth grade was given a huge box of wood pieces and beads after looking at a PowerPoint of various abstract sculptures (works by Richard Serra, Tony Smith, Henry Moore, Rachel Beach, Lynn Chadwick). I ordered one of those miscellaneous boxes of scrap wood from an art supply catalog, then added Popsicle sticks and coffee stirrers. We discussed how each viewpoint needed to be interesting and the difference between a "sculpture in the round" and a relief sculpture. Balance and color were also discussed. 

Clay Hearts

Clay is always a big hit. I used Crayola self-hardening clay in this project. The Crayola brand worked well, but you have to make sure the students add a small amount of water to keep it moist, and they need to make sure all the cracks are smoothed out (this will keep them from cracking more when they dry). It was around Valentines Day, so I allowed this class to make a heart to either keep for themselves or give to someone. We talked about the tradition of Valentine's Day and the heart symbol. I also showed them a picture of a real heart to help them understand that this was a symbol, not the same shape as a real heart. I also showed them the artwork of artist Jim Dine, and we discussed how he used the heart shape in his artwork.

It was easiest for the girls to make a ball first, then start to create the shape. I also gave them a lot of different tools to etch shapes and patterns into the surface. After the hearts were dry, they painted them however they wanted.

Little Fishy

These whimsical fish sculptures were made by pre-k girls. We used Crayola air-dry clay, and discussed fish parts before we began. We also discussed the shapes necessary to make a fish, starting with an oval for the body and using triangles for fins. After a week of dry-time, the girls painted them using tempera cakes.