GOOD DESIGN

Every school year at VLM, students are reminded of the big idea that ARTISTS BUILD VISUAL STORIES out of the elements of art--- Line, Shape, Color, Texture, and Form---organizing these elements with the Principles of Design.

As humans, we naturally gravitate toward good design, but as artists we must pay more careful attention. So as part of VLM's art program, each grade level focuses on a particular Design Principle as a way to create continuity and meaning throughout the year. 

For example, second graders look at the Design Principle of repetition and PATTERN: how artist repeat lines, shapes, colors & the other elements of art to make all kinds of work look good.  

Can you how 2nd grade students created PATTERN by repeating lines, shapes, or colors, in the student pictures above?

How about in this traditional Adinkra Cloth from Ghana below? 

Where do you notice pattern in your home or on your belongings? 

STARRY, STARRY START

Murray students started the school year by peering at Vincent Van Gogh's famous Starry Night, and pondering the question, 'Why do artists create?' Then students crafted small sparkly 'star' sculptures that will, eventually, hang somewhere in our school. Each star was unique, reminding our school-wide community of artists that we each bring different skills and ideas to each project we tackle.

As Murray's art teacher, I always try to keep in mind purpose, too. For example, why do we create here at our own small public school? What makes art education worthwhile to students, and how can I craft experiences that let them think and wonder and surprise and challenge themselves? 

How can I create projects that are both meaningful and accessible to each child?

Here are a few examples of our 'stars' crafted from glitter foam, cardboard, and colored pencil.

DID YOU KNOW:
Recently, 120 years after the Artist's death, a new Van Gogh
Painting was discovered!
Check it out here.



In this blog, I hope to share images and ideas with Murray families. Feel free to share your family friendly thoughts & comments. 

Yours in art,
Jocelyn Johnson