Year 7: Exploring Documented Forms

Year 7 students have been exploring a new expressive form: documented forms. Using the 3D Oldenburg-inspired food sculptures they collaboratively created in previous lessons, these sculptures became the focal point of a series of photographs. Working in groups, students selected site-specific locations to document their "Enlarged Food Sculpture," using prior knowledge and skills such as lighting, the rule of thirds, and photo editing to enhance their compositions. Building on these skills, students carefully placed their sculptures in locations that conveyed a narrative, shared a moment in time, or evoked an emotion, such as nostalgia. After capturing their shots, students engaged in a process of editing and critical evaluation, reflecting on how their artworks relate to the Pop Art movement. They also considered their methods of construction, the techniques they employed, as well as identifying strengths and areas for improvement. This comprehensive project not only developed technical skills but also deepened their understanding of Pop Art and various ways to express this style in their own artmaking practice.

Year 8: Surrealistic Creatures 

Year 8 students have been exploring Surrealist techniques, such as metamorphosis, scale, and juxtaposition, to design imaginative fantasy creatures within their unique environments/habitats. Throughout the process, students have been refining their artwork by incorporating additional tonal variation, enhancing textural details, and experimenting with line work and subtle shadowing. Significant progress has been made in their mastery of watercolour techniques, as students learned to control the opacity of colours by adjusting the amount of water used, while also revisiting key methods such as dry brush, wet-on-wet, and wet-on-dry techniques. Additionally, students explored mixed media as a tool to guide the viewer's focus to specific elements within their compositions. To further extend their artistic skills, students transitioned from their finished fantasy creatures to creating personalised Pokémon cards and animations. This creative project not only enriched their understanding of Surrealism but also allowed them to develop a broader artistic repertoire.