Artist Trading Cards, Second Semester, 2017

Since the beginning of the new semester, students have been working on a small collection of artist trading cards. Artist trading cards are miniature works of art that include subject matter of the students' choice. Students are also able to choose any medium in which to work when creating their mini artworks. Each student chose their favorite card to turn in for a grade. Below are photos of a class set from each block.

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Animal Zentagle Project, 2nd Semester 2017

Our first project for second semester was our Animal Zentangle project in our drawing unit. We learned about observational drawing, value, contour line, shape, and color.  Students chose an animal (real or fantasy), and experimental with abstract line patterns called "zentangles". They used a minimum of 8 zentangle patterns in sections of their choosing. The animals were colored with colored pencil, while the background was painted with watercolor. Check out some of our results!

Printmaking

We have just wrapped up our printmaking unit! Students made 3 types of prints in class: a monoprint, a relief print, and a collagraph. Our monoprint was made by using shaving cream and liquid watercolor to create a bright, warm or cool image. Students used this as a background for their relief print, which was printed in black ink. Students designed their relief print using shape and symmetry on a linoleum block.

Identity Maps-Watercolor

We have recently wrapped up our summative watercolor project, called "identity maps". Students learned to express aspects of themselves using an imaginary map and paint as their vehicle. They created an island with 8 or more land or water features named for aspects of their identity. We began our unit by dyeing watercolor paper with tea to make it look old. Students then learned how to watercolor using 3 main watercolor washes (flat, gradual, and transitional). Details were achieved by using very small, fine, details brushes. Take a look at the amazing detail that these creative sixth graders were able to achieve!

CD Upcycle Project: One to the World

Students learned about "upcycling" for our One to the World unit in art. One to the World (OttW) is a new initiative set forth by Loudoun County where students learn about a "real world" problem and consider a solution. We used 15 year old Mac software CDs that were once used by Eagle Ridge MS, and "upcycled" (repurposed) them to create artwork. Their designs were inspired by the stained glass work of Louis Comfort Tiffany and mandalas. All student CDs will remain hung together for the 6th grade art show in June-they are wonderful in person!

Clay Sculpture: Altered Pinch Pots

Students were very excited for their clay sculpture unit this semester. They learned about 3 main hand-building techniques: pinch pot, coil, and slab. For our summative assignment, students were required  to make a pinch pot (open or closed), but then, they could make it into whatever their hearts desired! A closed pinch pot is made by joining 2 opened pots together to create a hollow cavity. When students were finished sculpting, sculptures were fired, and ready to be glazed. Students chose from over 60 different colors to glaze their work. Check out some examples of our final products!

Artist Trading Cards, Semester 2

Throughout 3rd quarter, students have been working on their collections of artist trading cards during their spare time. Artist trading cards are miniature works of art, on which the student can use any medium. The subject matter is completely the choice of the student. A "trade day" is held each quarter, where students have the opportunity to trade their cards with each other and with their teacher as well! Every student chose their best card to turn in for a formative grade. On the back of each mini work of art, students write their name (they're the artist!), the medium (materials) they used, a title (creativity is encouraged), and the date the card with created.  The photos below are of each student's choice, organized by block.

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Block 8:

Mrs. Baxter's Collection: