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Building with Natural Found Objects
Our Objects, Our Stories
Drip Drop Paint
A Walk in Nature
Words, Words, Everywhere!
The Shape and Meaning of Words
Children will work with each other to shape their bodies into letters. They will then look at letters in the Association, Quicksilver Messenger Service, Fillmore Auditorium, San Francisco poster and repeat the exercise fashioning letters that mirror those in the poster. Drawing upon the fact that the Association, Quicksilver Messenger Service, Fillmore Auditorium, San Francisco poster communicates information, they will then imagine a special event and come up with words to communicate information about that event.
Human Transformation
When discussing his artwork in the video provided in this lesson, El Anatsui talks about transformation and fluidity, and how they replicate life. Students will examine Rain Has No Father?, paying special attention to the folds and malleability of the artwork. The class will use Anatsui's quote, "Human relations are not fixed…they change from time to time; they are dynamic," to spark discussion and inspire personal writing topics.
Letters About 19th Century U.S. History
Students will look at decorations and details of a late 19th century cabinet and imagine the life and times of the family who owned it by researching events during this time period. Students will write imaginary letters to a family member based on historical information they research from this time period.
Cause and Effect
Students will critically examine and discuss the image of St. Ferdinand, King of Spain and use what they learn to demonstrate an understanding of the concept of cause and effect. Students will work collaboratively to create a cause-and-effect chart relating to both the artistic style of the object and the historical significance of the subject represented.
History, But From Whose Point of View?
Students will critically examine and discuss the image of St. Ferdinand, King of Spain, then analyze and interpret it as a historical source for information as well as an important and impressive work of art. Students will consider how the artist and the patron who commissioned its creation influenced this sculpture, and generate a list of questions about the artwork.
The Beauty and Simplicity
Students will observe the Black Raku Tea Bowl for characteristics of wabi sabi, an aesthetic ideal of beauty. Students will then create a haiku poem about a simple, yet elegant item.