live, and what threatens their existence. Online resources such as field
guides to local flora and fauna were
helpful. Introducing vocabulary
such as food chain, habitat,
diversity, and interdependence tied art-making to science and ecology.
Using the enclosed space of a
milk jug (previously collected), students began to build a sanctuary for
their chosen animal. One student
decided the diorama would reflect
her unique experience of seeing
a mother moose and her calf. She
saw a parallel between the moose
with its calf and her own family,
who were expecting a new child in
coming months. Another student
decided to add a steel trap near the
fox in his diorama to represent the
dangers present to the fox.
visuals from books and magazines
for students to use as reference. The
drawing served as a springboard to
model a miniature animal in clay.
Pinch techniques were reviewed
and students got to work, sculpting
with low-fire
clay. When
finished, the
pieces were
put aside
to dry. Two
weeks later, I
fired the clay
animals and
students painted them with acrylics. Color mixing and tint and shade
techniques helped students attain a
color resemblance to their animal.
and SchoolArts (April 2007, pp. 14–
15). I showed parts to the students
(censoring some material for this
grade level).
Walton Ford’s interview offered
many ideas for discussion, including
what the land
Within a small space, looked like two
children build a sculptural centuries ago,
animal sanctuary where food why it is differ-
ent today, and
and shelter are provided, joining why Ford spoke
animals and viewers in an of Audubon as
intimate, protected moment. both hero and
villain. Other
contemporary artists who would
work equally well as examples
are Deborah Butterfield and Kitty
Wales.
Drawing and Sculpting
After researching their animals, students completed a pencil sketch to
become familiar with their animal’s
features and proportions. I provided
Introducing Artists
While the clay was drying, I introduced students to work by contemporary artist Walton Ford and his
inspiration, John James Audubon.
Ford has a wonderful interview
found both in the Art: 21 PBS series
Building the Habitat
Students brainstormed different
shapes to cut into the jug for an
opening. We decided to leave the
handle in the back of the jug for
hanging afterwards. Students drew
the opening onto the plastic and I
