Art Is Messy

First graders ended they year by learning about Van Gogh’s sunflower drawings. I set up two still life displays around the room an then the kids basically just took off by themselves.

Once they finished their contour drawings, they used oil pastels for the color. I was doubtful at their ability to use pastels for small areas, but once again they rose to the challenge.

The thing that I liked best about this project was that my students were able to clearly see their growth from the beginning of the year. It gave them a tremendous sense of accomplishment. The last sunflower that I posted is testament to this. This student had tremendous difficulty controlling materials at the start of the year. During the project he turned to me and said “Ms. Sajan, I think this is my best work.” I have to fully agree!

For this project first graders learned about how artists use symmetry in artwork. They then combined their new knowledge with crayons and watercolors to create beautifully patterned butterflies.

My first graders just finished learning about the cave paintings in Lascaux, France. My students then created their own cave paintings on sand paper that they created. Their paintings are currently outside my classroom. Their cute little animals make me smile every time I leave my classroom. Hopefully they have the same effect on you.