I couldn’t help myself from beginning with some alliteration. The Year Five students have not only been making masks, but they have also recently looked at how they can add to their writing, by using this poetic device. I will endeavour to sneak in some more alliteration, so see if you can find my attempts.
In the Year Five corner of Mueller, the classrooms are currently filled with colourful creative masks. Both students and teachers are really proud of what has been produced. The calibre of masks, both on the walls and in art journals are very commendable.
When I took photos of my class wearing masks, I was reminded how much we take seeing a smiling face, for granted. I thank God that we can show emotions on our face, because wearing masks made my class look sad. Even though their faces didn’t show it, I knew they were happy and enjoying the opportunity to show off their hard work.
In our new Art Unit, students learnt a brief history of masks from around the world, completed mini-tasks and then their final activity was to design a personal mask. The unit incorporated knowledge, design and construction components. The Year Fives began by designing face masks, just in case they needed to be added to the school uniform. Then they looked at the history of tribal masks, focusing on creating unique symmetrical designs. They picked their favourite drawing and produced a larger version that included the choice of traditional or modern colours.
The next task involved creating a mask using complementary colours. Students were given a large selection of templates to design a Venetian Eye mask. Moving onto Mexican masks was the next mission. This mask was black and white using stylised designs and patterns. One of the most challenging activities was an attempt at digital art, with Chinese masks. Some encountered technical issues while many discovered how hard it was to carefully colour in using their finger, instead of a stylus pen. This concluded the mini-tasks and students were excited to begin their main project.
The chosen theme for their personal masks was ‘Getting to Know Me’. They brainstormed aspects of their life that included favourite colours, food, sport, places, talents and interests. Students designed four masks that reflected themself and then had to decide which was their best. They were given a cardboard mask to begin creating their unique masterpiece.
The last part of the unit was typing an artist statement that gave them the opportunity to explain their design choices, involving subject matter, colour and techniques used. I am thrilled with the effort of my class and the other classes. Their masks make me smile.
This proved to be a prolonged unit to plan and prepare. I had a few other mini-tasks that I would have liked to include, one involved the technique of dot painting. This time next year, you will have the opportunity to see many more marvellous masks, made at Mueller.
Mrs Richens 5R
