We did lots of research on various ships and I shared my Scandinavian heritage with the students. I may have swayed them to create a Viking ship but I think the fantastic dragon heads and decorative pieces of the boat are the reason most selected a Nordic style ship. The day we painted the sky and ocean was definitely a favorite (who doesn't want to toss salt or splatter paper to create a cool effect. See the project page for a detailed description on creating a similar boat.
I am always on the hunt for the next best project and when I found this, I was so excited! Students always sit down draw their still life items and they are so scared to start. ("Draw light," I say.) Anyway, I feel it is my job to motivate students and feel successful. I think this is the drawing project!
For this specific project, students don't have to agonize over their items. They practice a bit and we work together on the difficult items, trace, and then the fun begins.....PATTERNS! Kids love to doodle and this lets them create. I hope you enjoy these Zentangle Still Life Drawings as much as I do!!!
This is not a new project, however, students are surprising me with their originality. Here's the gist: Students create a list of symbols that represent who they are at this time in their life. Each symbol is drawn (using the elements and principles) in a creative way and then cut out and flipped to show symmetry.
I think we have some very fantastic artists! What do you think?