Visual Arts

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The children across all levels at Hawthorn West Primary School are given a one hour lesson in the Art room. During this time they are exposed to a wide range of experiences through which they develop skills in painting, drawing, collage, printing, textiles, modeling and construction. They are encouraged to explore the elements of art and to think, plan and research different ideas in order to gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the world around them. The children learn to value artworks in their own culture and the culture of others.

Through a variety activities across all levels the children were encouraged to discuss their understandings of how they learn most effectively in the Art room.

We discussed the following broad ideas:

• What makes us become better learners
• Representing our ideas visually is an effective way to communicate our thoughts and understandings
• Working cooperatively both as an individual and as part of a team
• Taking responsibility and encouraging self-management
• Establishing rules and responsibilities in the art room
• Sharing resources and materials with others

Term 3 2008

The program for all levels this term will be based on the costumes and cultures of different countries around the world. They will all look at the style of visual and performing arts from China.  All children will participate in the making of a Chinese dragon which will be used during the Opening Ceremony of the School Performance. The children will explore a range of dyeing techniques to make the skirt of the dragon. They will also use simple stitchery to decorate the fabric.
Each level will participate in drawing, painting and collage activities on the picture story books short listed for Book Week this year as well.

Special Projects

At the end of each year the Grade 6 children are involved in making a special art project for the school as a memento of their time and experiences at the school. In 2006 they made a clay representation of themselves which mounted onto a board and is hanging as a mural in the foyer of the school building.

In 2005 the Grade 6's decorated a paving stone with mosaics which was laid as a pathway in the Sustainable garden.

The Grade 6 children explored the technique of wet felting and in 2004 this was made into a wall hanging which is also on view in the foyer of the school.

As part of the program for Italian Day in 2006 all the children worked on a large mosaic picture illustrating various aspects of the culture. This can be seen in the LOTE room at the school.

As part of Italian Day 2007 all children each made and decorated a clay leaf to make an Olive tree. This is displayed outside the Art room in the entrance to the new building.

The Visual Arts program works in closely with Performing Arts each year especially for the School Performance. The children are engaged in designing and making costumes and props for the much anticipated event!

Art room Assistants

We are fortunate to have dedicated and talented parent and community helpers who come in to the Art room on a weekly basis to assist the children and provide additional support for the many tasks associated with creating and displaying the children’s artworks.

If you feel that you would like to contribute to this program please contact the school. There are many opportunities for enriching the program if you would like to help!