Maori Masks - 8th Grade

Every year I try to do a mask design with my students. I haven't found the perfect combination of ideas but this year we studied the tattoo designs of the Maori tribes. Students then created a mask and decorated with their own tribal designs. Sometimes these translated into very tribal looking pieces and sometimes the pieces became more like abstract art. It was great lesson and gave the students a lot of freedom and opportunity to let their own personality shine through in the creation of their art work.

Elements and Principles: Form, Shape, Texture, Contrast, Variety, Pattern, Unity and Rhythm

Cross Curricular: Social Studies

Project Requirements: 

   - Paper Mache was applied and created neatly. Facial features are still evident.

   - The form was painted neatly with 1 solid color

   - The form was neatly glued to the background paper

   - The mask included a design that demonstrated Contrast and Variety, and showed attention to detail.

   - Design is drawn and colored neatly.

   - Design is continued to the background and blends with the mask.

The Summer Island Series - Searching the Storm by Melinda Martin Knysz

I am an avid reader and love delving into books that interest or could possible interest my students. This is an amazing book written by my girlfriend. I am totally wrapped up in the book and can hardly wait for the next chapter to come out. Please enjoy. Leave comments and read to your hearts delight.

http://summerislandstorm.wordpress.com/