My students are from a very small and rural town in Eastern Kentucky. Many of the lower grade schools in the area do not have art classes so this class is their first introduction to the subject. Despite that fact, I love their enthusiasm and their readiness to learn. Every day they come in asking, "What projects will we be working on today?"
It has been difficult working with a culture that does not see themselves as artists but I am seeing that culture change with my own eyes.
They have begun getting lost in their own worlds and I see a shift, already, in their work after having some instruction. I love their enthusiasm to try something new and I hope to give them the joy I feel when I create.
My Project
At the beginning of the year, one of the first questions my students asked was if we we were going to be able to use clay. Clay helps students understand the functionality and practicality of art because of the immediate products they receive. Many see art as only a way to express themselves, not to create a useful, daily object.
We have received enough funding to purchase the actual clay, but now we need help with other supplies necessary for the unit.
Glazes are used to add design elements to ceramics. Students will be able to use the color theory we learned in previous units to decorate their ceramics. The brushes I have listed are specifically used to hold and paint with glazes. The boards are to protect our tables and help lock in the moisture in the clay.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Swihart and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.