I recently conducted a unit integrating art and STEM through an exploration of local birds. By combining elements of play, observation, and artistic expression, this unit not only engaged the students but also fostered cross-curricular connections. To kickstart the unit, we began by making our own binoculars. Using black paper rolls and vibrant washi tape,... Continue Reading →
Help Me Hokusai!
I want to share an exciting and engaging art project I recently conducted with my two sections of 5th grade. We delved into the world of E-Z-Cut block printing, drawing inspiration from the renowned Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai and his iconic print, "The Wave." We used teacher demos and peer learning a lot and the... Continue Reading →
Creating a Sustainable Learning Oasis: Elementary Students Embrace the Sustainability Garden Project
In today's world, fostering environmental consciousness and promoting sustainability have become essential goals within education. At Washington Episcopal School (WES), students are actively engaged in a remarkable project that combines art, science, and nature. The entire elementary school, from second to fifth grade, is excitedly preparing for the creation of a sustainability garden. (You won't... Continue Reading →
Grade Three and Symmetry
What did the art students at Washington Episcopal do this winter? Moroccan-inspired tiles! Grade three was inspired by the beautiful blue city of Chefchaouen and also spent time learning about different types of symmetry. The students started by learning how to roll clay through a slab roller, then cutting their tiles out to the desired... Continue Reading →
Grade Five Assemblage Vibes
This year my 5th-grade artists looked at the work of Louise Nevelson and Betye Saar. Inspired by their work with found objects we started our own collection of bits and bobs. Each student started out with a cardboard base for stability and then we learned all about composition. We played with how we would arrange... Continue Reading →
Grade 4 Makes An Impression
I tried drawing from observation and impressionist style paint application with my 4th graders and they did a fantastic job! The results are phenomenal and I hope you enjoy some photos of their process and final pieces.
Becoming Kieth Haring
My Second graders started out the year learning about the term "Public Art". They looked at Kieth Haring and other artists and learned the term "Mural Art" as well. Once we had a good handle on this type of art we started on a journey to create a design with a variety of lines just... Continue Reading →
Art Club is a Wild Ride
To start the year off, my after-school art club made paper roller coasters. Part of my new job includes running two after-school art clubs. One for grades two and three, and another for grades four and five. It is an awesome opportunity to try out projects with the kids, and see what works and what... Continue Reading →
New, New Digs!
I have recently accepted a job at the Washington Episcopal School, just outside of DC in Bethesda Maryland as their elementary art teacher. I am following my children into what I hope will be their school until 8th grade! I am going to be teaching 2nd-5th grade art classes, and I couldn't be happier! The... Continue Reading →