• We discussed different types of magical buildings ranging from imaginary to the built.  They could be where magic tricks were performed such as a circus tent, the children had just had a circus incursion, or buildings that would just be ‘magic’ to visit or live in.
• The children worked in small groups.  The method of construction was demonstrated and their first task was to design their building.  Children were encouraged to come up with interesting shapes that would help covey the magical quality of their building. Drafts were drawn and discussed until consensus was reached.
• The frame work was constructed with strong balloon straws connected with 15cm chenille stems which had been cut in half. Where necessary masking tape was used to secure joins.
• A layer of white tissue paper which had been brushed with Cellogel wall paper paste was then placed over the framework.  This was allowed to dry.
• Consideration was then given to the type of papers that could be used to finish the building.  Colours and textures were discussed. The children could choose from tissue, lace, cobweb, mesh, wave and silkee papers. Papers were cut to size, pasted with cellogel and applied over the white tissue paper.
• When dry the constructions were sprayed with Micador Crystal clear permanent gloss finish.
• The project took 4 weeks to complete.

Lesley Moodie
Visual Arts Teacher
Montpellier PS.

Copyright 2008 Zart Art & Zart Education