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

Holiday Activities: Local Event Calendars

Looking for something to do over winter break with the family? Check out these art hot spots calendars to find something that suits your interest. The DIA has a lot of exciting things happening on Friday nights. Also, the Toledo Museum of Art has many activities to offer daily. If you are looking for other unique workshops, check out the Ann Arbor Art Center. Hopefully you will be able to find something of interest. Start planning now and do something fun with your family outside the box. Happy Holidays!
DIA | TMA | Ann Arbor Art Center

Chihuly in Toledo until February 7th 2010!

It's not too late! If your looking for something to do with the family over the holidays, go to the Toledo Museum of Art to see the glass works by Dale Chihuly. The show has been extended by popular demand through February 7, 2010 and it's free! It seems like every time I turn around there is a Chihuly show in the area. Take advantage of this opportunity! Happy Thanksgiving!
Toledo Museum of Art|Toledo Free Press

Student Watercolors

While I was setting up in the morning a student walked in to show me three watercolors he did over the weekend. He spread them out on the table and began to tell me all about what he had done. Jacob, a 5th grader from Mrs. Sickler's class, shared with me that he went up north to visit his grandma in Norwood near Charlevoix. He told me about the process involved in creating these pieces and how he would look at pictures or outside and analyze what he was painting. I was very excited to hear Jacob's passion for watercolor and asked him if he liked creating art like this. He said "yes, because it's a great way to express your mind. I love to paint these scenes because it's a way to remember what it's like up there". Thanks to Jacob bringing in his paintings, my week got off to a great start!

Former AP Studio Art Student Honored

This charcoal drawing by former AP Studio Art student, Carolyn Weber has been selected to be included in the College Board's AP Studio Art Exhibit.

Carolyn's drawing was selected out of 35,000 portfolios from 21 countries. To see other student works to be included in this show, follow the link.

http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/apc/public/courses/teachers_corner/190457.html