Manadalas and Other Special Requests

One of the classroom teachers asked me if I would do an art lesson with all of the 4th graders that included math. She requested that the lesson involve geometry-using shapes and symmetry. This was the same week that an awesome you.tube video was posted on the art teacher Facebook page titled: How to Grow a Mandala. See where I'm going with this? AND since it was right before vacation and I wanted something quick and easy - why not? I also managed to find a wonderful SlideShare, courtesy of Nancy Walkup about radial symmetry. First, I showed the slides and then I showed the video.

Check it out!

 

Loved this lesson so much that I did it with 3rd grade! And then 5th grade!

 

5th graders worked so fast that I put out colored pencils for them to use.

 

It was a lot of fun and a great way to end the week before spring break.

I have mentioned that I am involved with community theater and sometimes I fabricate props. I thought it would be interesting to share some of my activities outside the art room.

First, my pot belly stove. I actually found directions to do this online. The stove started life as 2 large flower pots. I added a small step stool, 2 plant trays, plastic pipes and a little fun foam to to simulate heat. Then it was all assembled and painted by my husband with flat black paint that you would use on a BBQ.

 

The production I am currently involved in required bananas, LOTS OF BANANAS.......

I bought a banana, opened it up, traced the peel to make a template. Then I traced and cut out dozens of fake bananas from yellow fun foam. Next, I laid them out on the garage floor and wheeled myself back and forth painting and splattering them. 

Yes, gotta LOVE a chair with wheels!

 

And let's not forget the plaque on the door made from tooling foil-

In addition to making props, I have directed, been the stage manager, made costumes, painted scenery, and have acted several roles on stage. (Even received 2 awards for my acting!) 

BUT, the best part ARE the friends I've made along the way!

Thanks for reading! I would love to know how you use your creative side outside your art room!

Also, for anyone attending the NAEA conference in NOLA I will be part of a carousel of art teachers talking about blogging. My mini presentation will be about getting started. It's on Friday, March 27th at 11am.