We have started the term using the art and themes in picture story books to inspire our artwork.

ECC have been threading, peeling, cutting, sticking and even painting nails in the pop-up Giant Nail Salon. These activities have been designed to promote fine motor skills. After reading A Forest by Marc Martin and Big Smelly Bear by Britta Teckentrup, they have printed using sponges and bubble wrap to make a giant forest and their own smelly bears.

Foundation have made a big book after reading Little Cloud by Eric Carle. Each child made their own page where they have used a sponge to print a cloud shape they imagined seeing in the sky.

Year 1 and 2 students have almost finished painting stunning owls after reading Mopoke by Philip Bunting. They have been learning to paint in steps and leaving their work to dry before they paint the next layer.

Year 3 and 4 read Slowly, slowly, slowly said the Sloth by Eric Carle and created beautiful papers using sponges, cardboard, bottle tops, pasta and their fingers. They are going to use these papers to make collaged animals.

Year 5 have looked at American artist James Rizzi’s work, and have been using oil pastels and watercolours to make their own Pop Art piece.

Year 6 students have read Cat and Fish by Joan Grantwith which features all black and white illustrations. They are combining drawing, collage and a bit of sneaky photocopying to create a black and white art piece of a school of fish.

Looking forward, I have asked all grades the big question, ‘What are you bursting to do in the art room?’ Their answers will play an important part in my planning of future activities to ensure student engagement. I look forward to sharing news and showcasing artwork from the art room with you.

SARAH PILGRIM
Art Teacher