SchoolArts - August/September 2011

original scope of the project. Some brought in their own materials, including deerskin. Some students stitched on readymade items such as backpacks and shorts. The needlework was satisfying for most, and a change from the processes of drawing and painting. Most students enjoyed the repetitive rhythm of stitching, and needed only occasional help for threading needles and tying off knots. The color and texture of each bead, stitch and sequin created a satisfying appearance as the work progressed. We have an old sewing machine in the room, and several students took turns using it to finish their pieces after hand embellishing.

backpack pins, and small pillows.
Connections to family and friends
were depicted in many of the pieces,
while others were more abstract cel-
ebrations of colorful design. Native
American
design inspired
some work, as
did Egyptian,
Celtic, and
1960s psyche-
delic motifs.
Depictions
of a favorite iPod, the Mr. Peanut
character, and the Ohio State logo
were among the most pop cultural
designs. Some works were finished as
functional items and some were left
as rough-edged but exciting textile
pieces. The experience was a positive
way for students to learn about a liv-
ing artist, encounter new techniques
for their art-making, and, for many, to
share their carefully made work with
family and friends.

Students learned about a
living contemporary artist and
saw the potential of art as a
pursuit that is pleasurable and
potentially profitable.

Amy Albert Bloom taught this lesson at Governor Mifflin High School in Shillington, Pennsyvlania. amyalbertbloom@ gmail.com

NATIONAL STANDARD

Students conceive and create works of visual art that demonstrate an understanding of how the communication of their ideas relates to the media, techniques, and processes they use.