7th grade students learned the renaissance technique, plaster of Paris, and created individual abstract contemporary gesso a scagliola sculptures. The sculptures are of museum quality.
8th grade students learned the lost art painting technique known as frescoes. Working with lime based plaster and natural pigments each students work was inspired by Mark Rothko.
In addition, the 8th grade students learned a secret practice of removing their frescoes from its wall and transferring the art onto a canvas. This then allowed the frescoes to be preserved and framed.
The combination of the students contemporary paintings and ancient technique produced a group of vibrant and unique art pieces.
After busy weeks of algebra, chemistry, independent projects and other academic pursuits, middle schoolers look forward to their much needed art day in nature. Working with their hands and the freedom to create has given each student the opportunity for personal and artistic growth.