We are celebrating Black History Month! This project is special- we begin by reading Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave by Laban Carrick Hill and illustrated by Bryan Collier. This book is a great introduction to an important figure in art history as well as the basic techniques of ceramic artworks, specifically functional pottery.
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Dave was an enslaved potter working in South Carolina between 1820-1860. His work still stands with beautifully inscribed poems and signatures. The book describes each pot storing something special, similarly students are consider something special they would like their vessel to contain. We are making traditional coil pots in unique forms.

This year we are starting a sculpture garden in the green space at school. It is a fun, large-scale collaborative project for the whole school. This endeavor is made possible through the generous support of our parents and PTA- thank you! 

Here is a first look at works by kindergarten, first, and fourth grade students. 

Younger students are making science connections, studying the parts of a flower before making them with clay. The stems, leaves, and flowers are individual parts that can be stacked to make a whole. We are also reading Planting a Rainbow by Lois Ehlert for inspiration.

Older students are also making science connections as they study weather patterns before making colorful wind chimes with clay. Each chime consists of ceramic beads that are hand formed, painted, and glazed. Have you ever hear ceramic wind chimes? The sound is quite lovely. Come look and listen.

​Keep an eye out for more installations next school year! Have a great summer!

Side note, Moshe Safdie is also the architect who designed the Jepson Center for the Arts! You are able to explore one of his unique designs in person.