Objects of material culture have meaning. American flags, worktables, bulletin boards, interactive whiteboards, and large white-faced clocks signify "classroom" while color wheels, cupboards, cabinets, sinks, drawing supplies, and that particular scent that lingers after years of exposure to painting materials even more specifically…

Describes how author collected scrap materials from manufacturers for use in her art class. Explains how any art teacher can build a similar collection. (KM)

An exercise package is presented for use in introducing the first-year junior college design student to the simplified techniques of contour drawing and cropping. First, introductory comments discuss the purpose and possible uses of the exercise. Next, the following terms are defined: positive contour drawing, three-dimensions, closure,…

From prehistoric times people have been fascinated with color; from cave paintings to the latest computers, color has been a constant companion. Textiles are made more beautiful by the alteration or application of colorants. This teaching resource investigates vat dyes, a colorant class which includes the oldest dyes known as well as important…

This classroom resource kit contains a presentation for 12 slides representing artworks found in the permanent collection of the J. B. Speed Art Museum (Kentucky), a teacher's manual, and an evaluation sheet. The printed document provides critical insight into the artworks and their historical era by investigating the materials and technical…

Abstract expressionism was the first art movement of international importance to have its roots in the United States. This movement stressed the role of art as a method of individual expression. Abstract expressionist paintings are usually non-representational and some elements of their production have been left to chance. Individual artist's…

From prehistoric times people have been fascinated with color; from cave paintings to the latest computers, color has been a constant companion. Textiles and craft items are made more beautiful by the alteration or application of colorants. This teaching resource investigates dyes obtained from natural sources, such as plants and animals. These…

This instructional resource, designed to be used by and with elementary level students, provides inspiration for landscape painting by presenting the work of six different artists. These include: "Fuji in Clear Weather" (Katsushika Hokusai, 1823-29); "The Tree of Life" (Gustav Klimt, c. 1905-1909); "The Waterlily…

This course outline, intended for ninth and/or tenth grade students, is designed to: (1) help students develop evaluative criteria for various art forms; (2) become aware of the interrelationships of the arts; and (3) realize that all art forms are part of the individual's attempt to reflect upon and interpret the world in which they live. In the…

This handbook, designed for use with preschool and elementary age children, provides instructions and instructional materials for the development of proficiency in cutting. Scissor cutting is a critically important activity for young children to practice because, along with coloring and pasting, it is used widely to foster the three R's as well as…

This instructional resource, designed to be used by and with elementary level students, presents six works of art which feature an animal. These art works, by master artists from diverse cultures and historic periods, serve as starting points for exploring various artistic techniques. Images presented include: "Lascaux Horse" (Lascaux…

This instructional resource, designed to be used by and with elementary level students, presents six works of art which tell stories. These images, created by master artists from diverse cultures and historic periods, serve as starting points for exploring various artistic techniques. Images include: "The Bayeux Tapestry" (Late 11th…

There are many ways to approach the investigation of architecture. One can look at structural form, climate and topography, the aesthetics of style and decoration, building function, historical factors, cultural meanings, or technology and techniques associated with construction. This resource kit touches upon a few of these approaches, ranging…

Exposure to certain art materials can damage the human body. Some of these materials are identified together with factors that influence exposure, including duration, frequency, and environmental conditions. Responsibility for providing a safe working environment for the creation of visual arts in the classroom lies with the instructor, principal,…

This guide was designed to provide a sequential art program for grades kindergarten through 12 and to assist teachers and administrators in maximizing the use of available resources. The program also reflects recent trends in art education that encourage the development of understanding and appreciation of art heritage, aesthetic perception and…