It’s hard to believe the holidays are upon us. We have so much to accomplish before the holiday break. 
During the month of December classes will continue exploring various cultures and journey to continents around the world. As students improve their critiquing and observational skills, they are applying the Elements and Principles of art and design to their own creations. It is encouraging to hear the students expressing their love of art through journal activities and group discussions.
Juniors, Seniors and First Grade continue their Native American cultural studies by creating art and listening to authentic music and folk tales.
Did you ever wonder why Masks are so important to the people of Africa? Ask any Second/Third Grader and they can tell you. Students are investigating various African Artifacts and taking notes in their sketchbooks. These discoveries will then be reported to the class during a group discussion. The Second/Third Graders will complete these colorful masks with pastels while working on their blending techniques.
Fourth Graders are creating beautiful Kentes inspired by the Ashanti people of Ghana. Kente Cloth is a cloth of beautiful colors and patterns produced in many countries of West Africa. They are especially known for this woven design. Because of its wonderful design and varied colors and textures, Kente Cloth is prized for its richness and cultural associations.
Fifth Graders continue their unit on Hopi Kachinas. Each student will write a story about their Kachina and the lesson it teaches children. They will then design and sculpt Kachinas from traditional Clay. This unit will be enjoyed by all, as the Fifth Graders will go from class to class to present their Kachinas and read their stories to the students at Rohan Woods.
The Cuna Indians of the San Blas Islands will be the focus for Sixth Grade. They are creating beautifully colorful reproductions of traditional Molas. A Mola is made of many rectangular pieces of fabric of different colors sewn together. Each layer of fabric is carefully cut and stitched by hand to allow different colors to show through. Molas depict many things- nature, animals, flowers and daily life. Once their initial sketch is created, the Sixth Graders will delicately cut colorful construction paper to make their Mola come to life.
Traditions and celebrations are something we all have experienced no matter where we live or our background. It is wonderful listening to the memories you have made with your families and the joy the children express sharing them with us.
Jennifer Burkert
Art Specialist