Pre-K "Shrinky-Dink" butterflies

The Pre-K class is studying bugs and butterflies.  We made butterflies using shrink film and Crayola Gel markers. I baked them in the oven at 325 for 3 minutes.  They got a little bendy- it looks like the butterflies are flying.  Next time I might sandwich the pieces between two sheets if parchment paper.  The preschoolers loved using these new materials and they will be so excited to see their finished, shrunken butterflies!  

Fifth and Sixth Grade Self Portraits

Kindergartners Explore!

To begin the year with the Kindergarten classes, I like to make sure the young artists have a complete understanding of the most basic art materials.  We practice care and clean up and explore the different ways to use the materials.  This helps students to become familiar with each of the tools before they are inundated with other directions.  We set up crayons, markers, colored pencils and oil pastels on four different tables.  I also included some stencils and pattern rubbing plates.  We rotated through the fours stations so that each artist had a chance to explore all of the tools.  Kindergarten artists were extremely productive and creative and definitely enjoyed the chance to draw whatever they wanted.

CRAYONS!

COLORED PENCILS!

OIL PASTELS!

MARKERS!

 

Burlington's South End Art Hop

I saw some amazing art and great music at last weekend's South End Art Hop in Burlington.  This annual event showcases all types of artists' work.  The South End of the City of Burlington came alive with different types of art and open studios around every corner.  I was thrilled to see so many people exploring and appreciating the arts.  

I would definitely recommend this cool event to anyone who needs a serious jolt of creativity in your life!  

Ways to Stay Creative

Here is some advice for artists of all ages.  I will try to remember these tips myself on a daily basis.

Source: nepatyliukais.blogspot.com via Jody on Pinterest

Helping Hands

In the days following the destruction of Hurricane Irene, we saw something beautiful happen within our community:  Many folks lent a hand to neighbors and friends to help them clean up and get back in business after the flood.  Students reflected on ways that they had helped their community recover and how they can "lend a hand" whenever it is needed.  We used markers and colored pencils to create hands that express each student's individuality and creativity. 
                         

Why is ART important?

Here are some of the reasons why Fayston Artists think that art is important:

You have to use your imagination!

Art is a fun way to learn

Expresses Creativity

Art is a creative break from schoolwork

Without Art, the world would be colorless.

Art is more than just fun and games.

Art is an escape from reality.

Art makes you see the beauty in things.

Art is a break from academics.

It is a relaxing way to let your thoughts go.

Art is a great way to express yourself.

Art calms you down and makes you happy.

You can draw your imagination!

There is no right or wrong.

It makes the world colorful.

Art helps you use your mind.

Art can help you learn. 

It’s FUN!

If you didn’t make art, your walls would be blank.  You need color and pictures in your life.

If you make a mistake, you can always fix it. 

Art can show love and peace. 

In life you need to be creative to solve problems.

Art is inspiring!

Art makes me feel free!

Many different jobs use art.

Welcome Back!

It is so good to be back at school!  Despite our delayed start due to Hurricane Irene, our school is finally filled with smiling children and eager teachers.  Personally, I feel like I have an awful lot to be thankful for as this school year begins.  I am excited to be returning to school after spending five wonderful months with my son Willis.  Thank you to everyone who has made my first day away easier by asking about him.  He is a wonderful, healthy, happy baby!

Summer Clay Camp at the Fayston School

Summer Clay Camp at the Fayston School!  

Come explore the exciting world of ceramics!  Students entering grades 1-7 are invited to get creative with clay this summer. 

Two separate sessions:
Wednesday through Friday, July 6-8

and

Monday through Wednesday, July 11-13

$100 per session

Contact Nora for more information nora@madriver.com

Willis Sumner McDonough arrives!!

Willis Sumner McDonough arrived on March 19, 2011 at 4:33 am.  He weighed 5 lbs. 1 oz. and was 18 ".  Dana Davis will be teaching art while I am out on leave.