5th grade Global Architects

5th graders have started an exciting unit looking at how Architects from around the world respond to environmental factors. Young artists looked at Dura Vermeer's work, as well as the efforts to rebuild in New Orleans, LA as a springboard for discussion.

First, students looked at green design, and then brainstormed on different environmental factors that may inspire their designs. These new architectural works are imaginative and inventive in scope, but required careful planning and sketching.

Here are some images of student work in progress!


Students explored 4 different ideas before moving onto a larger final work, that would serve as an advertisement for their Architectural Design.


Next students organized their paper into different sections for image and text, and started their work in pencil.


Finally, students began enhancing their advertisement using watercolor washes.

I am excited to share the final work with you! There are many varied and inventive designs!

1st Grade Camoflauge vs. Contrast

Student's in first grade are learning about the art term contrast, and connecting to Science by comparing contrast and camoflauge. First graders spent time learning about colors that blend together, as well as colors that are complemetary, or opposite. They gave examples of colors that pop out when put next to each other, and shared their ideas about what camoflauge is used for in nature.

Next students used their observational drawing skills to render animals, and their new color theory knowledge to make those animals hide, and pop out of their surroundings.



Today we read a book about a Tanzanian tribe who wear bright red contrasting garments, and search out animals in nature. The students used this book as a springboard for color ideas and have come up with some wonderful drawn responses!

3rd Grade Scientific Illustrators

Students in 3rd grade at Cumberland Hill are currently working on a Scientific Illustration Unit.

I couldn't help but post today after my 3rd grade class did such amazing work! We are starting the process of Imaginative Scientific Illustration. Students looked at a PowerPoint last class period and did a great job leading review and remembering key points and explaining how artists can create artwork for Science Magazines and Museums.

Students showed an impressive amount of imagination and joy combining animals together and thinking of hybrid names for their new creations.

As I looked around the room I was delighted to see student's using their "art eyes" while drawing from observation.

I cannot wait to share their finished work with all of you!