Candy Tank sp.17

In collaboration with 5th grade teacher Mr. W's Candy Makers unit, 5th grade artists explored the art of packaging  and product design.  Students were challenged to design and make their own unique candy, package it, and pitch the idea- Shark Tank style in front of a panel of judges.  Judges included a food scientist, Mr. W. and myself.  Students were assessed on their presentations as well as the quality and design of their product and package.

Children's Library Mural sp.17

I'm currently working with the literacy specialist to bing new life to our children's library.  She shared with me her overall design vision for the project and from there I was able to recruit some very talented middle school students to bring this idea to life.  This project is still in progress, I can't wait to share updated photos and speak more about our process! 

Skyscrapers SP.17

In this collaboration with Ms. Tyson and her 3rd grade artists we explored building skyscrapers from recycled materials.  Students investigated the properties of skyscrapers and other forms of architecture before designing and building their own.   Students were challenged to create structures that were taller than they were wide.  Students were also required to build structures that were architecturally sound- meaning they could survive the Ms. Severns shake test.  Students also had to consider architectural details and elements of design.  I loved all the wacky colors, details and materials students used to complete their work, and that no two buildings are the same! They really knocked it out of the park with this one!  This was a part of 3rd grades unit on Chicago. Continuing the theme of Chicago architecture, following this project students participated in a collaboration with Latin School of Chicago to create Louis Sullivan inspired clay tiles.    

Budding Gardeners sp.16

In collaboration with Ms. King and her 1st grade budding gardeners, we created two large signs for the community beautification garden they researched, designed, and planted.  The students were hard at work as gardeners but also artists.  The students wanted to create lasting signage for the community to enjoy.  

We began this project by brainstorming what should actually be on the sign, as well as what colors we wanted to use.  Each student created a post it note sketch of an idea for the signage, then as a class students voted on their 4 favorite designs.  The students who's designs were chosen then learned how to draw BIG! I worked individually with each artist to help them sketch their design onto our signs. Then the four artists selected the colors from our color palete and placed dots inside their drawings, essentially creating a large paint by number type of work.  Once the dots were placed all students had an oppourtunity to contribute by painting part of the sign.  

The signs were placed in the garden during the groundbreaking ceremony and are still there for the community to enjoy!