Tuesday, September 17, 2013

FIFTH GRADE . . . Our reflections of a drawing

Fifth graders brought in their sketchpads to art for the first time today. We took turns presenting our drawings with the class and we learned how to talk about each drawing. We were able to point out something specific about the sketch and we were able to ask the artist questions as well. How amazing would it be to go to a museum and actually ask Vincent van Gogh why he painted swirls in the sky of his "Starry Night." To be able to ask an artist a question gives us an opportunity to learn and appreciate so much more about the art.

It is not enough just to say you like a picture; we want to know why you like it. When we discuss a drawing in class, these are some of the elements of art we can recognize or talk about:
  • Is the image realistic or abstract?
  • Are the colors soft, bright, bold?
  • How was the object shaded? 
  • Is there an interesting design or composition on the page?
  • Details about the subject of the drawing
  • Details about the background
  • Do you notice anything about the use of line or shape? 
  • Is there a sense of movement in the picture?
  • How does the picture make you feel: happy, sad, calm, excited?

Here is a sketch by Abbi S. that was presented earlier today. We heard some wonderful thoughts about the drawing in class. Click on the comments option below... can you come up with your own reflection?

3 comments:

  1. The bunny looks very special! Mrs. Geene

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  2. I love this drawing Abbi! Just like you told us in class, the bunny looks like it has been a favorite thing in your room always. It even seems to have been drawn with love and a lot of careful attention. - Mrs. Levine

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  3. Abbi, This drawing really reminds me of the "Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane." If you haven't ever read it, you should and I wonder if this drawing will pop into your mind like it did mine! Mrs. Cicco

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Thank you for your thoughts!
Barbara Levine
Ranney Lower School Art