Lafayette artists are learning about the power of the arts to transmit joy, transform sorrow, change minds, and heal hearts! In Lafayette’s art studio classroom we are not only learning about the elements, principles and media of the visual arts, but are using the arts to gain a greater understanding, depth and richness of language arts, math, science and social studies curricula. We are hoping learning in and through the arts at Lafayette nurtures lifelong learners and creators!

Monday, February 27, 2012

D.C. Architecture Exploration Meets Color Theory

Third graders use their DC photos as the inspiration... shapes, lines and architectural details are traced, colors are matched... tints, shades, neutrals, and low intensity... all leading to spectacular paintings and DC architectural literacy!

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Painting with "MUD" is just squishy:)

Korhogo cloth from the Ivory Coast is just the latest African textile explored by our 2nd graders...
Mud is just the latest material we've experimented with... we also had a blast with Fon cloth made of colorful felt, pen and pastel Kuba cloth, Adinkra stamped fabric, and Kente weaving. 

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Noontime Quilters Are Sewing Machine Enthusiasts

Lafayette's fifth grade quilt makers are mastering the use of sewing machines to create a traditional "monkey wrench" quilt. This pattern, first spotted around the time of the Civil War and again during the Great Depression, is still made today. The 2012 5th grade quilt will be featured in the Bids for Bears auction and sports our school colors of blue and gold.
Lafayette's quilt making professional, Principal Lynn Main, was sharing her expertise during Open Art today! Please consider bidding on this keepsake of your child's time here at Lafayette.

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Texture Explored Through Habitats


First graders already know TEXTURE is my favorite element of ART! I like both texture you can touch (TACTILE) and texture you can see (VISUAL) and we experimented with changing one into another as we made rubbings and created sea creatures. Then we remembered about habitats and what a sea creature might need to survive and created a tactile texture habitat for our fantastic sea animals.