Symmetry: African Masks

We have been studying symmetry lately and making African masks in art seemed like a like culmination of our work. First I read the book Spot the Leopard, an interesting book that discusses the different types of ceremonial masks and how they reflect the culture of their tribes.

Then using glued-on pre-cut pieces of construction paper and feathers, we made symmetrical designs on pre-cut masks. Many of the learners copied the African masks folklore by representing various animals. 

Spring: Chinese Blossoms

The recent warm weather and spring blossoms inspired this project. The first step was to look at examples of Chinese calligraphy and notice the characteristics of the various lines. Then we looked at examples of Chinese art that includes blossoms and talked about their symbolism (often a symbol of luck).






Then it was time to create our own versions. Step one was to place a cup on our watercolor paper. This would be the negative space of the moon. The next step was to paint around the cup, filling the paper with a shade of blue. (Some choose the dark blue of twilight, others choose a lighter shade of a foggy night.)

 

We waited a bit for the blue watercolor to dry and then we painted the black lines of the branches. 

 After a short break where the black paint dried, we glued small pieces of pink and white tissue on the branches. The final step, and the kids' favorite, was picking a Chinese stamp to decorate the corner of their piece.