Dragons

The idea of this unit was to combine the development of drawing and design skills with an appreciation of art in other cultures, particularly in Asia and Japan. I collected an array of painted artefacts such as silk fans, umbrellas, scarves and wall hangings as a motivator for discussion. We also discussed design, proportions, pattern, line and colour.

Task One
The students were excited by the idea of drawing onto a Paper Screen. The theme of 'Dragons' was chosen because of the strong association with Asia and because it is a dramatic subject that captured the imagination of the students.
Their first task was to sketch their design on to paper of the same space as the screen. I used Kate Hart's Drawing Dragons (Dragons - Zart Art Pub. 1993) to stimulate ideas for possible images that the students could create. We discussed the layout of the piece and position and attitude of the dragon on the screen, eg. Will your creature be flying up the screen or down the screen and, importantly, will your design fill the space?

Task Two
During this lesson I demonstrated sketching a dragon and we talked about shape, line and pattern.
Students completed their sketches and outlined them in black felt pen. They were then able to trace their drawings on to the Paper Screens.

Task Three
We used Ocaldo Blocks to paint the dragons. During this session we discussed contrasting colours, backgrounds and patterns. A large selection of wonderful coloured and printed papers were also provided to enhance their work, and let's not forget a liberal splatter of Glitter, Sequins and Gold and Silver Pens.

Conclusion
The students' work will be displayed in all its glory at our Autumn Fair Art Show so that proud parents and the school community can enjoy the wonderful work our Year 6 artists have produced.

Mary Cooper

Copyright 2004 Zart Art & Zart Education Service