Through the explorations in this residency, students will grow in their level of familiarity with one of California’s parents from the past.  Students begin their dazzling voyage with an introduction to ancient Mexico, uncovering the art of the mysterious Aztec peoples.  What could these extraordinary stone statues represent?  Does the code contained in the Aztec’s codices tell a story?  Could it be a warning of some kind? 

 

The students will create their own original works of art inspired by the art of the Aztecs.  The hazy shapes of ancient history will come to life as the students’ palettes are filled with vibrant colors inspired by traditional Mexican weavings, handicrafts and adornments.  In their various artistic adventures, students will explore the boldness of traditional Mexican folk art and music and the varied tints and shades of more recent fine art inspired by the muralist Diego Rivera and the painter Frida Kahlo.   

 

Incorporates:  painting, pastels, cut paper, etc.
                              
Photos:
-Nuhuatl codice weaving, Mexico

-Aztec sculpture

-Self-Portrait with Flowers, Frida Kahlo

 

On the first day of this residency, students will dip their toes into the stream of the illusory.  Putting their “real world” investigation skills to work, students will compare several works of art that take a somewhat imaginary spin on reality. 

 

Students will be exposed to various perspectives that artists have taken on the world around us:  from Surreal to Cubist to Abstract, to even Dada!  Because these artists refused to be satisfied with seeing the world as it was, they opened the door for other possibilities through their imaginations.  While explorations into the imaginary can sometimes lead to strange or even absurd results, it can also lead us to innovations for the future!  Students will be challenged to observe, innovate and create on this inspired odyssey! 

 

Incorporates:  drawing, painting, collage, etc.

 

Photos

-The Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dali
-Woman with a Guitar by Georges Braque
-Bicycle Wheel by Marcel Duchamp