Art

Lower Elementary

Lower Elementary students began 2023 with a lesson in calligraphy. Using geometric templates they wrote their own initials We discussed cuneiform, hieroglyphics, and italic writing We shared thoughts and designs about symbolism and ancient manuscript writing

While painting watercolor blossoms on rice paper the students implemented their Japanese writing skills by using the art of Kanji. The month of February was all about the artist Claud Monet and the Impressionist movement The students observed the works of Monet while copying the famous “Waterlillies” using oil pastels on mixed media paper

In March, a lesson on textiles began Students created weavings, needlepoints, and crocheted works of art. After returning from spring break, they began work on eco-city and a lesson on art and the environment They have collaborated on this environmentally-friendly project by using recycled materials brought from home For example, they made a car wash using recycled water made from corks and biodegradable materials Eco-city was completed in time for STEAM night at MCS.

Upper Elementary

Upper Elementary students began the new year with a lesson on Surrealism; artists Rene Magritte and Salvador Dali were highlighted Students used watercolor to recreate their own dream sequences. Next, the students received a lesson on the Fibonacci Sequence and the Golden Ratio in art and nature

Upper Elementary reviewed the seven principles of design and created a poster of each principle - balance, pattern, proportion, variety, movement, emphasis, and unity They continued their studies of the four important art movements. They studied the works of Leonardo da Vinci and Jan Vermeer The students completed a lesson in clay and created Renaissance-inspired sculptures of crowns, castles, and goblets

Towards the end of the school year, they commenced work on eco-city and will culminate the year by designing their own sidewalk chalk masterpiece integrating the French technique of trompe l’oeil Students will choose their favorite design to be featured in the I Madonnari Festival at Mission Santa Barbara