Abstract Clay Tiles

This unit was one of my favorite units to teach this year! Grade 2 students investigated abstract art, artists, color, texture, and shape to express an emotion of their choice. Here is was what we inquired into during art classes...

Transdisciplinary Theme: How We Express Ourselves 
Central Idea: Expression can be abstract.  
Lines of Inquiry & Key Concepts: Artists choose certain colors, shapes, and textures to portray different emotions and feelings. (Connection) Audiences have their own point of view and make different connections to colors, shapes, and textures. (Perspective) Artists reflect on their technique and self-management skills to determine when artworks are the best they can be. (Reflection) 
Focus Artists: Wassily Kandinsky and Frank Stella

The students were introduced to this unit through a provocation discussion regarding the difference between Abstract and Realistic art. A range of artworks, examples, and photographs were set up at different tables and students discussed the similarities and differences between the art pieces. This was a great way to get students comparing and contrasting and also to assess students' prior knowledge. At the end of the discussion the students were able to describe the difference between realism and abstraction.

In the next lesson, the students were exposed to a variety of music and painted abstractly using lines, colors, and shapes according to how the music made them feel.

 The students then learned about the Russian artist Wassily Kandinsky and his love of music and art. They enjoyed watching this short video to learn more about his life as an artist and musician. We also read the book "The Noisy Paint Box" by Barb Rosenstock for further inspiration.

The following week, the students explored and discussed art works by contemporary artist Frank Stella. They enjoyed comparing Kandinsky and Stella's work, and used these artists ideas to start organizing their thoughts on how certain lines, shapes, and colors make them feel.

The students then started designing in their sketchbooks an idea for a final clay piece. They focused on an emotion of their choice and the lines, colors, shapes and textures that could reflect that feeling.

Once their ideas were planned, we began creating with clay! The student's created two versions of their abstract clay tile. One was taken home and one was used as a permanent mural installed within the school. Creating two tiles was a great way for reflection and peer feedback throughout the creative process. The students were very impressed and proud of their beautiful abstract work!