Friday, September 22, 2017

Expressing Abstract Identity

Colors, Lines and Text


How do these three simple elements produce complex ideas?

Sixth grade students delved into self-reflection through the study of Abstract Expressionism, risk-taking and "play".


I find 6th grade students, although confident as they may appear, are nervous, unsure and self-conscious about themselves.  My goal is to give them the space and time to reflect on their positive qualities, and hopefully give them a confidence boost. Through this art unit, I found away to "loosen" up my 6th graders and push them outside their comfort zone in a non-threatening way. 

Abstract Expressionism is an art period and style often averted in an elementary art class, but I think if planned correctly, with enthusiasm, the students understand this art movement.  In the preparation phase of this art unit, I reflected on my students artistic behavior.  After 6 years with me, I realized they regressed (naturally) from exploratory, adventurous students to overly mindful, somewhat nervous students.  It was perplexing at first, but soon understood that these pre-teen students are exactly where they need to be in their development.

I was just going to shake them up a bit.


Through this art unit, students were encouraged to "loosen up" and adapt to any obstacles I created for them.
And I created a lot.
Students layered paint, used white acrylic paint to 'erase' areas and incorporated text to create original works.
The results were fantastic.



Check out more snapshots on Instagram: Smock Room
If you are interested in the art unit, click HERE

xoxo, Smock You.