8th Grade Overlapping Pipes

This is the project one of my 8th grade classes is currently finishing up so I don't have just TOO many pictures of them. It's called overlapping pipes, which is usually a shading project. The students draw pipe-like shapes overlapping one another and use shading techniques to bring out their objects and make them look realistic.

Usually, this is done with drawing pencils or charcoal. Since I am *still* waiting for my Dick Blick order supplies to come in, I decided to let them shade with colored pencils. Doesn't really get the contrast I want, but they really have enjoyed shading with color for once and not a "regular boring pencil" lol!

I got the lesson plan right here:
http://www.incredibleart.org/lessons/high/high17.html

Laterz.

-Mrs. G

8th Grade Movie Posters

I've been a bit behind on my 8th grade work, so here goes:

The first project we did in 8th grade was a graphic design project where they had to use the Gestalt principles of design to create a striking poster that promotes their favorite movie. The outcome looked great! Here are just a few I snapped.

by Katie

by Andrew 

by Jazzmin

by Cassidy

by Jamie

by Marileigh

My new favorite art form-- zentangle art!

Being married to a graphic designer (and being a design junkie myself) I love art work that shows those influences. I have recently discovered a fantastic art form called zentangle art.

Zentangle is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Almost anyone can use it to create beautiful images. It increases focus and creativity, provides artistic satisfaction along with an increased sense of personal well being. The Zentangle method is enjoyed all over this world across a wide range of skills, interests and ages.

Lots of art teachers are doing these projects in class and I can not wait to share this with my students at MJMS. Not too sure which grade will be the lucky ones to first experience it though.... oh so many things to choose!

Here are some student zentangle art from various schools across the US. Can't wait to get started on this project at MJMS!

8th Grade Paper Mache Monsters: The Beginning

Fall is my favorite season for several reasons, a huge one being HALLOWEEN!! My favorite holiday! :) The past 2 years I have done a paper mache monster project around Halloween with my older kids. This is by far my most favorite project I have ever done with a class. Our 8th Grade A class just began their project today and I can not wait to post more pictures of them on here!

Before I take any pictures, I wanted to share the artist who began my inspiration for this. His name is Dan and he is a wonderful sculpture artist who has bombarded YouTube with so many cool videos of his work. My class loves him!

Below are some YouTube videos of his work, I will be posting some pictures of my previous high school student monster sculptures. They are fantastic!

Happy Wednesday!

-Mrs. G

Upcoming Art Club Workshop-- Melting Crayons!

Welcome back to MJMS! I hope everybody has a wonderful fall break. I know I did! :)

Art Club will be having our first after school workshop on Tuesday, October 23rd. It will be from 3:00 - 4:30pm. Students, please make arrangements with your parents to be picked up at 4:30!!!

We will be doing our melting crayon project!!! Here is what each student is expected to bring:

1. Canvas from either Wal-Mart, Hobby Lobby or Joann's Fabric
**If this is your first time trying this project, do not go big-- go smaller.

2. Towel you don't mind getting wax all over.

3. Hair dryer (one hair dryer can be shared between 2-3 students)

4. Box of crayons

We will be meeting in room G5 in "the basement". Parents can drive around to our back door to pick up students at 4:30.

Look forward to seeing everybody on Tuesday!!!!