Curriculum Work
Curriculum
Plaster of Paris Nature Print Collage
Summary:
This two session art project will connect art with nature through the use
of imprinting natural materials onto plaster of Paris.
Session One:
Students are to look for and collect various sized leaves, twigs, bark,
and other natural materials on a walk through the school yard. After students
have returned to the classroom, they are to lay out their collected materials
and quickly sketch their findings. They should be encouraged to jot down
their observations next to their sketches.
Working with one small group at a time, students will artfully arrange some
of their collected materials onto plaster of Paris and press down lightly
to create an imprint. Let molds dry overnight.
Session Two:
Students paint their molds with craft acrylic paints.
Skills: This tactile project combines nature journaling, three-dimensional art, and painting.
Materials:
leaves and twigs
1 cup plaster of Paris
½ cup water
mixing bowl
mixing spoon
waxed paper
paint (craft acrylics)
Directions for preparing plaster of Paris:
1. Pour the plaster of Paris into the mixing bowl.
2. Add water to the plaster of Paris until it becomes creamy.
3. Pour the plaster of Paris onto the waxed paper.
4. Wait until plaster has hardened.
5. Press the twigs or leaves into the plaster then remove.
6. Let the plaster harden overnight.
