Essential Question: What role does story, legend and imagination play in art?
Content Objective: Students will evaluate the artwork of folk artists who work three dimensionally.
Learning Target: Students will create a project choosing between a NW Pacific mask, mythological creature mounted head, Alebrijes animal or a wine bottle animal using paper mache.
Introduction to Projects "All cultures throughout the world have stories, myths, and legends to explain the unknown, communicate cultural values, and preserve the heritage of the culture. These stories are passed down from generation to generation, keeping the cultural "values" alive. These oral traditions are an important part of every culture because they serve as a constant connection between past and present, no matter how much other things have changed. " Andrew S. Basler University of TN http://middleschool.swampscott.k12.ma.us/pages/SwampscottMS_Teachers/bbms_rapisarda/myths%20and%20legends%20
Paper Mache A process where paper strips or shredded paper is dipped/mixed with a glue. Paper ache can be molded around an armature when it is wet, dries hard, and then can be painted. Traditionally, paper mache was made out of wheat paste or flour. We are going to use Elmer's Paste, a powder that is mixed with water to create a glue gel.
Class views video - Papier Mache Sculpture by Peggy Flores (Coat Hangers)
Armature A basic structure on which a sculpture can be built. It is often wire or wood, but any material that is strong enough to hold its shape can be used. There are several options available to use as an armature including coat hangers, cardboard, newspaper, milk jugs and aluminum foil. You will most likely use a combination of several materials. You choices will depend on the project you use and the amount of detail you add. The armature is extremely important. If it is week or misshapen, your project may fall apart or fall over.
Watch the following videos about armatures Paper Mache Dragon - Making the Armature (Cardboard and Foil) Paper Mache Mask (Milk Jug) Paper Mache Dragon Marionette (Crumpled Newspaper)
You have now seen three different armature video demonstrations. You will be using one or a combination of several of these methods for your work. As you read over your 3 choices, be thinking of the best armature for that project.