Our fourth grade students recently completed a drawing unit designing some "Funny Money". Each student had the task of designing new money in any currency of their choice using their self portrait as a starting point. The money they designed had to include all the elements in typical bills such as signatures of the Treasurer of the United States, and Secretary of the Treasurer, seals, serial numbers, etc. These elements were all subtly changed using their imagination. In addition, they had to enlarge their drawings using a grid method, carefully adding details in the correct grid block. For some, this was a very challenging project, but the results of the finished products were amazing.  ~Mr.G.

Our Kindergarten students recently completed their unit on self portraits. At the beginning of the unit, a pre test was given to each child. After much discussion about the difference between a portrait and a self portrait, and looking at portraits by famous artists, the children were asked to draw a self portrait on their own. There was no specific directions given other than they had to draw a self portrait. This pre test gave me a valuable information as to what their knowledge was of drawing a portrait of themselves just coming out of pre school. Next, I gave the lesson on how artists draw things like the eye, nose, mouth, ear, and the shape of our heads. The children were amazed at how much they were able to improve and see the progress in their drawings from the first attempt, to the final product. Don't be alarmed if you don't see these wonderful works of art come home any time soon though. I typically save all of my students' art projects for our annual art show in the spring. ~Mr. G.

Our first grade students have been working hard on their portraits this week at both BES and HES. Students had the task of giving Mona Lisa a makeover and bringing her into the year 2015. In addition, the students learned the correct way that an artist draws the details to a portrait such as eyes, nose, mouth, and what shape a persons head actually is. They had a great time adding crazy hair, jewelry, hats and stunning dresses. The children also enjoyed looking at DaVinci's Mona Lisa and comparing her to other famous portrait paintings. Lets hope next week brings some better weather!  Have a great weekend!!! ~Mr. G.

We made it through our first hot week of school in the art room. After spending much time reinforcing the "HES" way, and what it should look like in the art room this year for Honor and Effort, the students are well on their way to earning their paw prints.We had an amazing week! The students have settled in nicely and have all started their individual portraits depending on the grade level and class with amazing effort. I am seeing great details being added to the children's projects in each class. The behavior has also been terrific! Have a great long weekend! ~ Mr. G.