MS & HS Figure Drawing Electives Fall 2007
Ms. Janna DykThe goal of the figure drawing elective was to provide students with a chance to explore how to artistically render the human figure, with primary emphasis on drawing the face and hands. A variety of projects and in-class practice ensued. Each class session consisted of a short lesson about a different aspect of drawing the figure, followed by visual application (practice) of the concept discussed. Students took turns sitting as a model for one another, drew each others´ hands while alternating who would read about the new concept (while keeping their hands still!), and exploring various sketching exercises from Betty Edwards´ Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain.
Two coinciding projects culminated the semester: a series of practice drawings of infants, as well as wood paintings on panels. Students exhibited their work at the Evangel´s Christmas show in December. A copy of the description of this show is included here:
The Baby Sketches
Before we started to draw Baby Jesus, we had to practice drawing babies. Previous to this assignment we had only drawn people, and since babies’ features are softer and smaller, we needed to get used to drawing them before starting our Christmas project. So, these are some examples of what we sketched in preparation for our final art pieces.
Karas Bonifas, 9F
writing for the class
The Wood Paintings
A number of influences inspired these projects. As a class, we discussed the significance of symbolism in early Christian art, particularly the art of the Catacombs, and the Byzantine and Renaissance period. Many triptychs and paintings on wood exist to document the significance of symbolism in early Christianity. (One might peak into the second floor of the Metropolitan Museum of Art for a taste of immense about of gold-glittering pieces from such eras). Illiterate persons relied solely on drawings and paintings (aside from priests’ teaching and mass) to augment their faith.
For centuries, the very “best and brightest” of artists were fervent believers. Ironically today, Christians and the artistic community often conflict. Artistic exploration may be discordant with biblical teaching. Within the past half century, however, a significant movement has arisen among contemporary Christian artists to revive the early vigor and influence of art infused by faith (and faith reiterated by art). Artist groups such as Christians in the Visual Arts (CIVA), the International Art Movement (IAM), or individual artists such as the Frenchman Georges Roualt or Japanese artist Makoto Fujimura, implore persons with and without faith to consider issues of truth and of Jesus.
First sketching practice drawings of infants, the high school Figure Drawing Elective class was implored to create drawings or paintings on wood that reflected some of the early tradition of art, alongside their own faith. Since Evangel’s theme this year is “The Miracle of Christmas,” the students were encouraged to create projects alluding to this. Using books such as George Fergeson’s Signs and Symbols in Christian Art and a wide variety of art history texts, students tapped into a long-standing, meaning-filled Christian tradition to create these pieces.
Ms. Janna Dyk,
Art and Spanish teacher
Here´s what several students wrote about their pieces…
A Moment to Rejoice
The blanket over Christ has three colors: red, blue, and white. These reflect his purity, royalty in heaven, and the blood he would shed. The crown that brightly shines above him shows that he is king. The angels surround him to rejoice in celebration of his birth,, and will watch over Him always. Mary on the lower end of the picture is holding onto a columbine flower, which stands for the Holy Spirit.
What I want viewers to gain from this piece is the meaning of Christmas. For them to see how beautiful the day was many many years ago, and how we should still rejoice unto this day. The tiny Lord coming into our world and blessing us with his presence is a priceless gift God has given. Celebrate as the angels did this day.
Stephanie Massiah, 11W
Untitled
The star on my painting is a representation of Christ’ holiness and majesty. But I think the words holiness and majesty pale in comparison to what Jesus Christ really is. The baby in a manger is a representation of Jesus’ gentleness because as we all know some babies are usually gentle and innocent. The Cross is a representation of Christ’ symbol of love which is also the symbol of salvation. I would like viewers to gain that Christ is not just a symbol for Christmas but he should be a symbol for our daily lives.
Stephen Samaroo, 10
MS/HS Painting Elective Spring 2008
Ms. Janna DykThe emphasis for this class was on color mixing. Students were given the primary colors (red, blue, and yellow), as well as black and white, from which they learned to mix a variety of paint colors for their studies. An example of the color mixing exercise the class practiced is below. The assignment was to create the greatest variety of colors available using only the primary colors and white and black.
Considering Faith, Joy, and Peace in Mural Art
The climactic project was a group piece depicting some of aspect of faith, joy, or peace. Divided into groups of three or four, students created works that dealt with scenes illustrating, symbolizing, or representing these themes. A large part of the project was the discussion of murals and public art, as well as what an artist or group may intend in creating each.
“If Fredy here were a “Señor” like your “abuelo” and it were night time, how would you greet him?” I asked the class.”Buenas noches, Señor!” the class chimes together.
Imagine for a moment three students in front of the class: an “abuela” (grandma or elderly lady) clad in pearls and a scarf, an “abuelo” (grandpa or elderly man) sporting a sombrero, and an “alumno” who gets to be “lo normal”. Each represent one of the various people students might encounter when practicing informal and formal Spanish greetings.
This year the 6th grade classes completed an introduction into Spanish. Engaging in role- play activities such as these, students also performed skits, created drawings, practiced with worksheets, and composed short writing assignments, and viewed movies in Spanish and about Spanish culture.
Student work was particularly exemplary in completing the mid-year group projects; a summation of research, writing, and artwork inspired by the cultures of various Spanish-speaking countries.
Textbook materials include ¿Cómo te va? Glencoe Middle School Spanish textbook and workbook
Refer to www.spanish.glencoe.com for further information!
Senorita Dyk
8th grade Social Studies spent about two weeks on World War I. We reviewed the causes and reasons for the Great War occurring in Europe. In the beginning it was pure notes, but as the session went on the students were presented with certain hands on materials which were used during the war; i.e. a fold up shovel, Kevlar helmet, etc. From there we learned about the roaring twenties. The inventions such as the assembly line and electricity and causes of the economic boom in America were reviewed. The class has also been engaging in some intrinsically focused classes in regards to what it means to be a Christian and living a life focused on God. The students were given the opportunity to share their thoughts as well as write reflections about their thoughts. The class has grown tremendously since the beginning of the year and are eager for high school. – Mr. McCann
In 6th grade Social Studies the students have been learning about the Middle Ages and the social structure throughout the time period. The class was engaged in a stimulating demonstration showing the history of class structure, stemming from the lords down to the common peasant and how each class had a specific job. We then covered the Crusades and why they occurred. The students learned about great Christian missionaries throughout the time period as well, and how they suffered persecution for Christ. It really put into perspective the life of Christianity and an appreciation for those who have paved the way.
On May 14th the 6th grade class spent the day at the Hall of Science. Throughout the day the students were allowed to travel around the Hall of Science in search of a special exhibit they enjoyed. Once they found the exhibit they liked, they had to write about what the exhibit demonstrated scientifically and then explain why they liked the exhibit above the rest. Students enjoyed exhibits such as throwing baseballs under radar, the effects of friction, the warmth of asteroids, and the use of mirrors and light. The students had a great time and looked forward with great anticipation attending the Hall of Science again. Everyone had a good time. – Mr. McCann