Pupils at Kennet Valley C of E VA Primary School have been developing their creative skills by studying famous artists’ works. This has led to the creation of a wide variety of art using many different materials which is now on display around the school.
The oldest children, in Kites class, have been exploring how to draw and paint the human body. This linked with previous work on healthy bodies and the circulation system. Helen Bushnell, class TA (Teaching Assistant), said, “The Year 6 children have really been pushing themselves to make sure that their wonderful artwork was as good as possible. I am really proud of them all.”
The pupils discovered the effect of creating shadows and also created realistic sculptures out of wire and clay. Year 6 children, Chloe and Oliver, said, “We have enjoyed the art – it is so much fun. We couldn’t wait to use the clay to make the sculptures. We have also been thinking about the poses that human bodies can make and have looked at how different artists draw people.”
In Harriers class the year 4 and 5 children studied the work of Da Vinci, particularly his flora and fauna sketches and his work on machines. They researched Da Vinci’s flying machine ideas and used this to help to create their own designs and models using craft straws. These are now hung from the class ceiling and look as though they are floating above the desks. After this they created wonderful miniature drawings of the flowers and leaves that they found in the school grounds using chalks and charcoal. Emma Russell, Headteacher, said “I was extremely impressed to see the detailed and delicate art that the children in Harriers class produced. They were careful and thoughtful and the work looks wonderful on display in class.”
Picasso and Gaudi were the artists that the Year 2 and 3 children in Kingfishers class focused upon. After studying Picasso’s portraits they made self-portraits of themselves in the style of Picasso. This class also studied Gaudi’s beautiful buildings in Barcelona. Links to these artists were made because the children have previously studied Spain and learnt some simple Spanish. Sarah Hues, class teacher, said, “We love designing topic blocks that link together as it gives the children more opportunities to develop their knowledge and understanding. The Kingfisher children have worked so hard during the Art block and have produced some stunning pieces that they should feel immensely proud of.”
The very youngest children, in Wrens class, had fun exploring and using different materials to make a wide range of wonderful artwork. These were then displayed on their Seesaw accounts, so parents could see them at home. It was also displayed outside of their classroom for the rest of the school to see. They used different techniques and materials, including clay, crayons, paper, and natural materials when working. Wrens class teacher, Jacqy McQue, said, “I have loved seeing my Reception and Year 1 children exploring the varied materials to create a wide variety of pictures and artwork. We based some of the artwork on the books – ‘I can only draw worms’ by Will Mabbitt and ‘The Day the Crayons Quit’ by Oliver Jeffers.”
Art subject leader, Lisa Morgan, said, “I have loved looking around the school and seeing the children exploring and experimenting with a range of art material and media. They are so excited with this topic block and the results are truly magnificent.”
Phase Eight closes after over 20 years
