This term, our Year 1 students embarked on an exciting journey through the world of art, discovering a range of techniques, textures, and styles. Each lesson built on the last, allowing the children to experiment with different materials, explore their creativity, and learn about famous artists. Here’s a look back at the amazing work they accomplished!
Exploring Lines Inspired by Bridget Riley
We kicked off our art unit by diving into the fascinating world of lines, inspired by artist Bridget Riley. Her optical illusion art sparked the children’s imaginations as they observed how simple lines can create movement and rhythm on the page.
With chalk in hand, they began by drawing bold, sweeping lines on a large scale, covering surfaces with curved, wavy, and zigzag lines. Switching to pencil and string, they practiced control and precision, experimenting with different types of lines: straight, curvy, wavy, and more. This practice not only improved their fine motor skills but also helped them see how versatile and expressive lines can be!
Creating Waves with Zaria Forman
Next, we moved from lines to waves by studying the mesmerizing artwork of Zaria Forman. Her soft, flowing representations of ocean waves inspired the children to create their own large collaborative wave scene. This time, we used a range of materials: soft pastels, oil pastels, pencils, and crayons.
Each child contributed their unique touch to the wave mural, experimenting with color blending and different pressure techniques to create the illusion of movement in water. Working with pastels taught them how colors can layer and mix, giving the waves a beautiful depth and texture. The result was a vibrant, rolling wave mural that the children were so proud of!
Exploring Shapes and Abstract Art
With waves complete, our young artists shifted their focus to abstract shape artwork. We explored how artists use overlapping shapes and colors to create bold, eye-catching pieces. The children had a great time designing their own compositions by layering and overlapping shapes.
Using mixed media — including paper, markers, and crayons — each child experimented with different materials to create their own unique designs. They learned that art doesn’t always have to represent something real; it can simply be a collection of shapes and colors, sparking different emotions and interpretations. This activity really encouraged their creativity and individual expression!
Discovering Texture and Movement
Texture was our next big theme. We explored how different techniques and movements of the hand can create various textures on paper. The children practiced soft, gentle strokes, quick dashes, and circular motions to give their artwork a tactile quality.
This hands-on exploration helped them understand that texture can be created without touch, just by changing the way we use our materials. They practiced making bumpy, smooth, rough, and wavy textures, adding yet another skill to their growing artistic toolbox.
Learning Observational Drawing Techniques
To wrap up the term, we introduced observational drawing. We discussed the importance of looking closely at objects and sketching their basic shapes first, before adding finer details. This approach taught the children patience and encouraged them to slow down and observe.
Armed with pencils and sketchpads, they took their time drawing simple objects from around the classroom. They practiced capturing the overall shape before focusing on the smaller details, building their confidence in drawing from life.
A Wonderful Journey in Art
This term’s art unit gave our Year 1 students the chance to explore, experiment, and express themselves. From lines and waves to shapes, textures, and observation, they learned about the beauty and variety in art and gained a new appreciation for different materials and techniques. Each child brought their own flair to every project, and we couldn’t be prouder of the creativity and enthusiasm they showed!
Stay tuned for more of their incredible creations next term!
