Fourth Year Double 20.09.18

20/09/18

This class only has a group of three, they will be taking art for their Leaving Cert. The teacher introduced me as I haven’t met this group before. Ms S wanted to get the group to reconnect with a drawing exercise as this was their first class back. Ms S ran through examples of what the pupils will be working towards, ( pastel, object wine glass). To get them started they got to pick objects that are already in the classroom. However the pupils have drawn most of these, so Ms S was trying to engage them with something they haven’t already drawn. Ms S goes through a few of the objects and what parts would be interesting to try drawing and hopefully explore with some colour. The objects consisted of skull, a boxing glove, old shoe, and brush. Now I’m not sure if discussing the objects and their challenges will be good to make them think when they’ll have to pick for their LC or if its off putting and not challenging them to try something hard? Ms S did another quick breakdown of a backing sheet and ground sheet to help simplify light and shadow. So the aim of this exercise is to focus of texture and tone and for the second sheet they can use pencil and colour. Ms S took her time setting each girl up and helping them pick objects. This was easy as the group was so small.  Before they started Ms S did a refresher of the pencils and what is good for drawing and shading. Ms S went through the light and shade and used the bracelet and arm example for show light and shade, and mentioned the no smudging ( creates a brown? Not sure I agree). Whilst the pupils where drawing Ms S brought up portfolio for Art college. Now this was a bit disheartening as this isn’t the only this the subject works towards. Two of the girls chose to draw broken glass bottle, as they have never drawn it before. As Ms S went around she started with encouragement then went on to show them how the curve of the neck of the bottle will work. She also explained how a pencil study before introducing colour can help you understand and discover the shape of the object.

The group dynamic is interesting as this is such a small group and they have had Ms S for so long there is a lovely relationship there. The girls listen and are inquisitive.