Creative Exploration #7

Over the past week I spent my spring vacation in San Diego visiting family. While I was there I visited the annual ArtWalk downtown, one artist in particular really stood out to me (can't find the name!) He used the grid, so I chose to create a small grid and collage it into the painting. I've also been using oil paints and crayons in this one. My students are finishing up a Henri Matisse art lesson and their work has also been an inspiration in mine.

Creative Exploration #6

Curve ball: Explore

For this piece I decided to explore my theme of beauty further. I chose different symbols that encompass my theme. This series is beginning to become less about the swan. During our class critic the following feedback was given on this particular painting:

- love the natural/graphic mixture.

-explore printing graphic symbols/shapes by using a projector.

-explore symbols of beauty and other animals.

Automatic Drawing

I created this mandala in class during an automatic drawing activity. There were no limitations set in this drawing, other than to just begin and see what happens. The process is supposed to be similar to doodling. However I have to admit, I couldn't help but to plan a bit.  I have wanted to do a sun mandala lesson with my elementary students and my 1st /2nd graders are in the process of something similar with suns. 

Creative Exploration #5

This is a large painting (roughly 4' x 5') that I began about a year ago. For the 5th creative exploration I decided to revisit this painting, since I felt it was never finished. I still feel the piece has an unfinished look to the edges of the shapes. I also think the swans are rather small for the size of the piece.