Final Jeopardy Question 1/28/10

Yesterday's Final Jeopardy topic was 19th Century Artists. Alex read the quote "With an apple I will astonish Paris" and showed a still life painting.








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Jeopardy|Quotes

The 28th Annual Plymouth Ice Festival January 22-24

Looking for a way to stay cold? The Plymouth Ice Festival takes place this weekend! The spectacular promotes ice sculpture as an art form and features over 100 sculptures and entertainment ranging from live music to family shows and treats for all ages. What can be more exciting than ice, chainsaws, and activities for the whole entire family!

Realistic to Non-Objective Art

What is abstract art? That is what I am asking 5th grade to think about with our current project. Abstract art can be difficult to understand or accept, especially when I go to the art museum with my family. I always hear "I can do that" or "this isn't art" as I travel through the galleries during our visit. It takes very little to understand a lot. The first thing you need to do, and this is what I tell my students, is learn about what you are looking at. Ask questions and think about what the artist is trying to communicate. Only then will the magic begin. One way to help understand abstract art is to classify the difference in style from work that is realistic. Classifying the stylistic qualities helps students apply ideas in the process of creating their own work. Challenge yourself and take the Realistic to Non-objective Quiz online to strengthen your understanding of the stylistic qualities of abstract art.

Tim Burton: Artist & Film Director

Most of us by now have experienced the world of Tim Burton. Whether it was in Batman (89, 92, 95), Edward Scissor Hands, or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005), chances are you have purchased a ticket to one or more of the movies in his amazing filmography. Currently at the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) in New York City there is an exhibition on Tim Burton. I would absolutely love to hop on a plane and go to New York (on a regular basis if I could) to visit some of the greatest museums in the world, but when traveling to New York is not an option, we must find other ways to be a part of the events. One thing I enjoy most about how we share information today is how we can visit somewhere without leaving the comfort of our computer chair. Yes, you may not experience everything a place has to offer, but technology can open doors to create more interest and opportunities. Whether I am looking for something to do locally, planning out a vacation, or viewing an exhibition that I cannot attend, looking online gives us options that never existed. Thanks to the wonderful MOMA website, we can get a taste of the Tim Burton show. You have to check out this site! Not only does it let you experience a lot of his work and learn about who he is, but the website has to be the best I have ever seen. See for yourself! I promise you won't be disappointed.

While you are there, expect to get side tracked, but don't forget to click on the family activity guide.

Kindergarten Sculptures Inspired by Louise Nevelson

Until now, the Kindergarten students have been creating 2 dimensional pieces of art. So, to start the new year, I decided to introduce the students to a different art form: the exciting work of Louise Nevelson, a Russian-born American sculpture artist. Louise Nevelson creates 3 dimensional shallow-relief work using found objects, which she often arranged inside of boxes and then painted white, black, or gold. For information about this artist, please visit http://www.tfaoi.com/aa/7aa/7aa729.htm and http://www.guggenheimcollection.org/site/artist_work_md_117A_2.html. The students have had a lot of fun using found objects to create the shallow-relief sculptures!! All of the artworks will be displayed at the entrance of Houghton school within the next month!
Works in progress:

The Tournament of Roses Parade

As Michiganders we are very familiar with the Rose Bowl and one of the most exciting events during New Years Day, watching the Tournament of Roses Parade. While I was watching the parade this year I recognized, more than ever, what a terrific celebration of the arts it really is. The sculptures on the floats, the music, and the time that goes into making the parade happen. Just the fact that all the floats are constructed from organic materials is an accomplishment in it's own. Sculpture can be made from anything, and this proves just that. Take time to learn more about the parade and past trophy winners with the links below.

Tournament of Roses|Trophy Winners Photo Galleries