We're continuing to work on solving problems in Art 1. I've been giving them problems, like specific supply limitations, with the end goal of students independently selecting a limitation they choose and planning a project around it.
First they could only make art with newspaper, then we had a TASK party, next they had to forage for used or natural materials. All fun and all working toward a deeper understanding of how to working through problems and developing the confidence to take risks.
Today was our last mini-lesson before we start the unit's final project. I started with a short presentation about artists who work with physical limitations, asking students to identify three potential limitations to work with during class. I talked briefly about the potential of experimentation and playing for planning art and made sure kids knew that no final product was expected.
I thought that they would have fun and play. What I didn't expect was for many of them to embrace abstraction, experimenting with mark-making, color and texture. They told me it was freeing to make art without worrying about the final product or making mistakes. They found methods that were new and unexpected. It ended up being a FUN and a powerful lesson, which is pretty great. :)
I'm interested in creating a student student centered space for my high school students through choice and abundant opportunity for self expression. I'm also a writer for SchoolArts co-author of The Open Art Room.