April 23, 2014

Abstraction With Focal Point: 3rd Grade


I love abstract art, but I don't always love kids creating abstract art! ha ha  Sometimes it seems that they are just trying to copy what they see...and aren't listening to the questions that lead them to abstract art.  Know what I mean?  For this lesson I reviewed the Elements of Art & Principles of Design, looking both at realistic & abstract art.  We then focused on Focal Point, Balance, and Color.  During week one I had them create at drawing of an abstract piece with the above mentioned items.  They used marker and crayon to color it.  During week two...I gave them the first 15 min. to finish up their work.  Then I dropped the bomb!!! "YOU ARE NOW GOING TO CUT UP YOUR ART AND REASSEMBLE IT INTO A NEW PIECE!"  The gasps were hysterical.  We first reviewed Focal Point & Balance (color was already taken care of at this point).  They cut their pieces up & had time to arrange, rearrange, and rearrange again before gluing.  Once they came up with an arrangement they were happy with and fulfilled their Focal Point & Balance requirement...they glued their work down.  They did not have to use all of the original piece & overlapping was encouraged.  I then allowed them to use black crayon to outline, shade, segment, connect...WHATEVER!  The kids really enjoyed this project after getting over the shock of cutting up their work! ha ha


4 comments:

  1. I just wrapped up two abstract projects! I wish I would of seen this before they started! Love it!

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  2. This is a great idea, love the surprise twist!

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  3. Very cool.

    I still remember the day in a college painting class, when after painting in oils (from a posing model) on life size sheets of brown paper, the prof made us turn them upside down and re-create the entire piece.

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  4. I love the idea of cutting it apart and re-creating...a great way to free the mind.

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