Week 2 Reflection

The reading from this week really emphasized the function of the narrative in visual arts. It discussed how stories, emotions and feelings can be conveyed and expressed through children’s art work. The reading suggested that the arts allow children to explore feelings, emotions and ideas in a safe space which can help them make sense of the world and express themselves. I found this a very important idea to consider, when considering the value and importance of visual arts education and experiences for young children.

I was surprised and enlightened to learn how much children actually get out of visual arts experiences. During our class we discussed how important it is to engage with children before an art experience by exposing them to artists that use techniques that they might be using as part of their art experience. The videos I watched were in relation to asking children to examine and explore pieces of artwork and consider what they understand and interpret of different artworks. This can provide as a good introductory exercise to engage children and create a bit of context and inspiration before children go and do their own artwork using techniques, materials and equipment similar to those used in the artwork that they had explored earlier. Open ended questions may include; What materials can you see used, why do you think this artwork is called what it is, how does this piece of art make you feel etc.. It was interesting to actually do this our selves, as we explored Matisse’s The Snail and then used a similar technique of collaging to create our own artwork. I think it was good for us to work through this exercise and see the value of it ourselves, as stated in our text, it is important that educators have done the activities that they set up for learners to do, (Wright, 2012).

Art Experience:

Ages 4-5

Responding:
- Have students look at landscape watercolour paintings done by artist Alvaro Castagnet. Have them look at the colours and brushstrokes.

- Talk about the art elements and principles used
- Ask students open ended questions about the what they can see
- Ask children about what mood they feel when they look at the painting.




Making:
- Watercolours
- Paint Brush
- A3 Paper
- Students are asked to paint a scene of a place that is important to them or that they enjoy being at. Eg. Beach, grandparent's house etc..