STUDENT WORK

A collection of student work categorized by project.

Mixed Media Ming Vases - Lunar New Year 2025

1st Grade Artists
Pencil, marker, and acrylic paint on colored paper

Students explored the traditions of the Ming Dynasty by designing and illustrating their own vases inspired by the iconic blue-and-white porcelain of that era. They incorporated imagery of snakes into their vases to honor and celebrate the Lunar New Year, a holiday deeply significant in Chinese culture. By blending traditional Chinese design motifs with their own personal artistic vision, students created unique and symbolic works of art that reflected both historical influences and individual creativity. Throughout the process, students looked at real examples of blue-and-white porcelain, studying the intricate patterns and cultural symbolism found in these pieces. Additionally, discussions about the Lunar New Year provided an opportunity to explore the holiday's customs and meanings, reinforcing the importance of cultural appreciation in the art-making process.

Spirit Animal Pinch Pots - Visiting Native American Artist

K - 2nd Grade Artists
Red earthenware clay and glaze

With the help and inspiration from visiting Native American artist Tony Valderrama, students explored traditional pottery techniques by creating pinch pots inspired by their chosen spirit animals. This project deepened their understanding of how art connects to identity, nature, and cultural heritage. Valderrama shared insights on the symbolism of spirit animals and the role of pottery in Native traditions, helping students see their work as both personal expression and a reflection of history. Additionally, they considered the origins of earthenware clay, fostering awareness of sustainability in art. Through this hands-on experience, students gained technical skills while engaging in meaningful discussions about artists' connections to the Earth.

Hibernating Animal Burrow Systems - Printmaking

2nd Grade Artists
Ink on paper with collage elements and oil pastel

Students explored the historical importance of printmaking as well as its potential as an artistic process. Before engaging in printing, students considered life before printmaking- How were books made? How did we spread ideas and information? By reflecting on these questions, students gained insight into the transformative impact of printmaking on literacy, communication, and artistic production. To celebrate the coming of spring and the waking of hibernating species, students worked in groups of four and designed unique ecosystems with different burrowing animals. They drew their chosen animal and then created a relief print by making indentations into foam sheets, inking the "plate", and registering onto paper. Students not only developed technical skills in printmaking, but also deepened their understanding of collaboration, composition, and visual storytelling.

(more coming soon as students finish!)