Wire Fish

Students studied and discussed the external and internal makeup of fish. Fins, scales, size, texture and colours were all examined. The backbone was then examined, and the influence it has on the overall shape of a fish.
Using this as a basis, student drew an outline of a fish in metallic oil pastels and then divided the shape into segments, using a strong line to act as a backbone. Each section had to be decorated using different shapes and colours, but one space was to be left empty.
A food wash was then applied over the fish and while that was drying, students created a water background, adding collage and glued cut out fish onto this.

WIRE CONSTRUCTIONS-FISH
Students explored various methods of joining wire, and the possible tools that could be used. Safety precautions were discussed, no wire was to be lifted off the workbench until both ends were bent around, cotton gloves to be used when hot gluing or handling the wire mesh.
After creating an outline of a fish using 3mm Armature Wire, students then created spaces by joining galvanised florist wire, joining this to the main structure to create a jigsaw of spaces with one space to be left empty.
A criteria of materials to be used was listed, i.e. two spaces had to have Wire Form modelling mesh; no two materials were to be side-by-side etc.
Students chose a colour theme, and had an array of fabric, papers, pipe cleaners, lace, glitter glues and foils to choose from. The project lasted for five weeks and the students were fully engaged the whole time.

Ormond Primary School

Copyright 2004 Zart Art & Zart Education Service