Mixed Media Symbolic Imagery

Students discussed symbolism in art and literature, and how to represent a complex idea visually.  We discussed the theme "life" and what it meant to each student individually.  Students then took their concept and chose an object to represent it, developing their piece using mixed media of their choice.

Here one student utilized the spider web as dream catcher, as a spider can place the web deliberately in a space, but then elements of luck determine what lands in the web.

Here another student developed the idea of weathering the storm / the unavoidable, and using cut paper, cardboard, and paint created a symbolic tornado.  The student incorporated glitter to remind the viewer of the silver lining, and the benefits of hardships.  

Homework

Students - by now you should have identified the materials you want to work with for your final project, and selected reference imagery.  Please bring any supplemental materials and specific images to class Monday.

White Pencil Value Studies

Students were forced to rethink value studies and developing highlight and shadow by using white colored pencil on black paper.

Split Face Value Studies

Students practiced portrait studies by completing the other half of the magazine image, and to offer advanced options students could also stipple the other half. In addition, some students opted to grid their image and complete the full face drawing.

Print Making

After learning the process of creating monotype prints, students used nature as a loose inspiration and set to work.   Each student had to submit three successfully completed prints, one of which had to be at least two layers of color.

Homework

Students please do not forget that if you want specific reference imagery to focus your printing designs, please bring those Monday.

Social Issues Statement

Students identified issues in society that were of concern for them, and developed possible methods for best expressing that issue visually. Then they began the process of designing, constructing, and completing those pieces, with a summary of their purpose to accompany the installation.

A few examples:

Child Neglect

Global Warming

Students should complete two studies of faces from different angles, i.e looking up, down, or 3/4 profile. Shading completely to represent highlight, middle value and shadow.

Some Completed Pointillism Pieces

Beginning Pointillism Still life

Sketchbook Homework

Students should complete two sketches of possible designs for their social comment, and begin to gather imagery related to their piece. If students will be adding additional imagery or objects, they should begin to gather them as well.
Due 3/23/12.

Lanterns Displayed

Painting the Lanterns...

Sketchbook Homework

Students should create a list of five social issues or concerns that bother them, things they would like to see changed about society or the world. Pick one and brainstorm "How could I make a clear visual statement about this issue?" "How would people interpret that statement?" " Could I create a dialogue?" " Could I create a change?"
Be prepared to share list and ideas Friday March 16.

Sketchbook Homework

Students should isolate a list of eight things that represent their "culture" i.e. their family, religion, personal history, characteristics and personal choices. From that list they should decide on three items they would like to represent visually, and draw images representing them.
Due Monday March 5th.

In Progress Asian Influenced Lanterns

In Progress Pinch Pot Cupcakes

Students used pinch pots to create these wonderful cupcakes, using both additive and reduction ceramic techniques ...

Painted them with acrylic paints...

And sprayed them with a high gloss shine for a finished look.

Some Finished Ceramic Tiles