Artist Joseph Cornell (1903-1972) created wonderful environments inside boxes using mostly found objects. They were often Surrealistic in nature. Some boxes were designed with glass fronts, and others were meant to be interactive with the viewer, wherein the objects could be handled. With Joseph Cornell in mind, the author introduces an art…

How do you teach the "same old, same old" in an interesting and inexpensive way? Art teachers are forever looking for new angles on the good-old elements and principles. And, as budgets tighten, they are trying to be as frugal as possible while still holding their students' attention. Enter exploding boxes! In conceptualizing the three types of…

Describes an advanced elementary art project that was inspired by a fountain. Explains that the students created water fountains for tabletop display using hand building clay and glazing techniques. States that students selected a design based upon their abilities. (CMK)

Describes a printmaking activity where the students draw in printing ink on plexiglass slabs in order to create a mirror image called a monoprint. Explains that the students should not write words on their monoprints for two reasons: (1) it takes too long to write backwards; and (2) the ink dries quickly. (CMK)

States that many art teachers see weaving as too simple to be used as an activity in the art classroom. Asserts that weaving does not have to be unimaginative and provides ideas for using weaving to give students an artistic experience. (CMK)

Presents an art project for high school students that was inspired by the 1999 "Cows on Parade" exhibition in Chicago (Illinois). Explains that students used old Gateway computer boxes to create their own cows using the box, scissors, and a hot-glue gun. (CMK)

Discusses the use of pillows as an art form for children to explore. Addresses ways pillows can be used in art, such as: building things with pillows and using pillows and pillowcases to learn about design, to create portraits and figures, and to serve as a canvas for art. (CMK)

Discusses an art project in which sixth grade students design alphabets by transforming the shapes of the letters into new designs that are still recognizable. Explains that students brainstorm ideas for their own lettering style. (CMK)

Describes an art lesson, inspired by Giuseppe Arcimboldo's "Seasons" series, in which students construct masks representing one of the four seasons. Discusses the process and lists words and phrases associated with each season. (CMK)

Recognizes the importance of children's art made at home and focuses on having children express themselves through handmade art. Gives examples of different types of handmade art, such as making room accessories and furnishings, constructing "portable" artworks, and building figures in different mediums. (CMK)

Discusses how clothing choices can be a form of art expression in children and young adults and believes that art teachers should encourage such creativity. Describes types of outlets for artistic dress-up that can be used in the classroom. (CMK)

Discusses the use of disguises and masks in the art classroom and in the daily lives of children. Focuses on different materials and objects that can be used as a mask or disguise. Draws on the experiences of the author. (CMK)

Describes an art project where students create strange creatures using scraps of wood. Discusses how the students use the wood and other materials. Explains that the students also write about the habitat characteristics of their creatures. Includes learning objectives. (CMK)

Presents a personalized art activity that enables students, including those unenthusiastic students who think they lack artistic abilities, to participate in art. Explains that the students create a design or pattern within a pre-outlined silhouette. Discusses the process of creating the silhouette designs and includes an art materials list. (CMK)

Focuses on ways that children in art classes can be "gift artists." Discusses different types of gifts that children can create, such as presents for their parents or presents that have been personalized. (CMK)