January 20

Themes and Prompts:

The feature artists that we looked at for this class focused on the environment. Some of these  artists include Stan Herd and Goldsworthy. They used only nature to create art that is, of course, non-permanent (e.g. art featuring grass and icicles).

icestar

Another theme was that was covered in class was how artists interrupt the way we think through juxtaposition. Kruger, Holzer and Bearden were all examples of artists that did this. For example public art that is created outside that is meant to stop you and force you to take notice.

For example: public art by Jenny Holzer who uses text to command attention – powerful stuff !

holzer IMG_2359.CR2

Challenge: 

Our challenge was to apply Romare Bearde’s inspired collage techniques to create some kind of image/scene and to pair it with an interesting question or statement. To carry out this project, we used cardboard and magazines. Two goals for the art were to free our own constraints in the way we think and to play around with juxtaposition.   As seen below we came up with “words are worlds”, “listen to your body”, “grow naturally beautiful” and “if I had a million dollars.”

20160120_161148

By: Ariella L., Emily K., Tina L. & Sarah T.

Theories and Concepts

We discussed thinking latterly and creatively in the classroom. We were given the broad  concept of love and asked to create a concept map. All of the words that came up were stereotypical words (e.g. hugs, joy, chocolates…) This exercise showed us that stereotypes are what comes easiest to us.  It is up to us to not just use what’s fastest and easiest, but to push our thoughts and think deeply. Only then can we come up with words like giving, forgiveness etc. This idea lead to our next challenge

Challenge: Banner

For this challenge, we were asked to come up with a thought provoking statement and post it somewhere around the school. Our group came up with the following quote: “Teach students to lead others, not to follow instruction.” We hung our banner in the elevator. We believe the elevator is a place where everyone conforms. We all stand in the same position, facing the same direction.

20160120_162039

Challenge: Themes and Questions

For this challenge, we were asked to come up with as many ideas as we could for possible LES themes.

      Themes:                                                 Guiding Questions:

  • Invention                                            If you could create anything what would it be? ( Chosen theme for LES)
  • Miniature/over sized                           How does size effect us?
  • food                                                        How can we turn food into an artwork?
  • Environment                                        How could the environment could inspire art?
  • Illustrations                                          What are the different media that could be used to illustrate a book? (e.g. Plasticine…)
  • Fairy tales or Superheroes                  If you could design a superhero or fairy tale character what would he/she look like?
  • Emotions                                               How can art be used to express how you are feeling?
  • Recycling                                               How could recycled materials be used for art?