Art In Antarctica
Learning Sequence 7
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Introduction with Gavin and Jordan
In this lesson, students will unleash their creativity while learning about the beauty of kelp forests and fur seals. They’ll explore the unique shapes and patterns of horizontal and vertical kelp using crayons and watercolours, creating vibrant, layered artwork. Students will also sketch a fur seal, connecting art with learning about marine wildlife.
Their creations can transform the classroom into a calming space and inspire discussions on how art and nature can make the world better.
Gavin here, joined by Jordan from Young Art USA. Today, we’re in South Georgia, surrounded by amazing rocks, and we’ve got a fun project for you!
We’re learning about kelp forests—underwater hideouts for penguins. Did you know kelp has long, flowing lines and cool floating bulbs? This week, you’ll create your own kelp forest masterpiece!
Here’s your challenge:
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Use crayons to draw horizontal kelp (thick lines) and vertical kelp (thin lines with round bulbs).
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Paint over it with blue watercolours and watch how the wax makes your kelp pop!
And there’s more! You’ll also learn how to draw a fur seal, one of the coolest animals in South Georgia.
When we’re done, we’ll turn your classroom into a peaceful kelp forest with rippling light effects. It’ll be your calm, quiet spot—just like a penguin’s hideaway!
We can’t wait to see your incredible kelp forests and fur seals. Let’s get started!
Your Weekly Keywords
In this activity, students will collaborate to define ten key vocabulary words related to kelp and the use of light, dark, and shadows in art. Teachers will encourage students to explain these terms in their own words, promoting clarity and simplicity. To spark creativity and critical thinking, dictionaries will be set aside, fostering discussion and collaborative problem-solving.
After crafting their definitions, students will share and compare their explanations with a partner. This process will enhance their understanding, encourage meaningful dialogue, and allow them to refine their definitions by learning from one another’s perspectives.
This week, you’ll explore ten key words related to kelp and how light, dark, and shadows are used in art. These words will connect to the projects you’re working on, so it’s important to dive in and understand them!
Working with a partner, you’ll come up with definitions for each word using your own ideas—no dictionaries this time! After that, you’ll compare your definitions with another pair to see where your ideas match and where they differ.
This activity is all about learning together, sharing ideas, and building your understanding of this week’s topic. Let’s get started!
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Quote of the Week – Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio
This activity introduces students to inspiring quotes from influential artists like Caravaggio, encouraging them to delve into the meaning and context behind the words.
Teachers will lead discussions to help students uncover the artistic and philosophical ideas that shaped these quotes. By exploring themes such as light, shadow, and the role of nature in art, students will develop a deeper appreciation for how creativity is influenced by the world around us.
Collecting and displaying these quotes in the classroom can provide a constant source of inspiration, fostering a greater understanding of how art connects with life and emotions.
This week’s quote is from Caravaggio, a famous artist who changed the way people use light and shadow in art.
Take some time to read his words and think about what he might have meant. How do light and dark work together to create something powerful and dramatic?
If his words spark your imagination, try using contrasts in your own art. You could even create a space in your classroom to display quotes like this and keep the creativity flowing!
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Sketch With Jordan – Drawing a Fur Seal
This week, students will take on the exciting challenge of capturing the playful and unique features of a fur seal. Guided by a detailed task card and an instructional explainer video, this activity will help students develop their drawing skills through fun, hands-on practice.
It’s a fantastic opportunity for students to explore their creativity and grow as artists while learning about these fascinating creatures in an engaging and enjoyable way.
This week, we’re diving into an exciting new challenge: drawing a playful fur seal! Check out the task card I’ve created for you, and don’t forget to watch the explainer video below.
Once you’ve learned all the tips and techniques, it’s your turn to bring this amazing creature to life on paper. Use your artistic skills to show off the fur seal’s unique features and energy.
Get ready to let your creativity shine and capture the spirit of the fur seal!
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Sketch With Jordan – Full Video
In this activity, students will watch a video where Jordan demonstrates how to capture the playful and unique characteristics of a fur seal using techniques like shading, texture, and movement.
Teachers are encouraged to highlight the importance of focus and active listening, guiding students to carefully observe and understand the artistic methods Jordan shares.
This approach will help students replicate these techniques in their own work. The goal is for students to apply what they’ve learned, enhancing their artistic abilities through observation and hands-on practice.
This week, Jordan will guide you through the process of drawing a playful fur seal, teaching you how to use shading, texture, and movement to capture the unique features of this fascinating animal. Watch closely as Jordan explains techniques to bring the fur seal to life on paper.
After watching the full video, you’ll be ready to start your own sketch in the next activity. Take your time, enjoy the creative process, and let your artistic skills showcase the charm and energy of the fur seal!
Sketch With Jordan - It’s Your Turn
This activity encourages students to independently explore drawing techniques by sketching a fur seal, using the strategies demonstrated by Jordan. The task allows students to build their skills step by step and offers the opportunity to reinterpret their sketches with paint or other colours for added creativity.
This approach supports different skill levels, gradually increasing complexity and inspiring students to push their artistic boundaries. Completed artworks can be added to their portfolios, showcasing their growth and achievements throughout the course.
After watching the full video, it’s time to grab your pencils and try drawing the playful fur seal, just like Jordan demonstrated. Use the task card to guide you as you create your own version of this amazing animal in all its charm and energy.
If you’re happy with your sketch, you can take it further by adding paint or other colours on a separate sheet of paper. Remember, every piece of art you make is a step forward in your artistic journey—add it to your portfolio to show your progress throughout the course!
Watch – How to Create a Kelp Forest
This task invites students to draw inspiration from their lesson on kelp forests to create their own vibrant artwork, encouraging creativity and personal expression. Using Jordan’s instructional guidance, students will use wax crayons to sketch the flowing lines and unique features of kelp, followed by watercolours to bring their designs to life.
This hands-on project enhances artistic skills while fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty of underwater ecosystems. Students may also be inspired to present their artwork in our upcoming classroom display, explaining how their use of colour and texture captures the essence of a kelp forest, enriching their creative and educational journey.
This week, we’ve been inspired by the beautiful kelp forests of South Georgia, with their flowing lines and vibrant colours. Now, it’s your turn to bring this underwater wonderland to life!
Watch the instructional video where Jordan will guide you step-by-step through creating your own kelp forest masterpiece. You’ll use wax crayons to draw horizontal and vertical kelp, then add layers of watercolour to make your artwork pop.
Once you’ve learned the tips and techniques, dive into creating your own unique piece. Get creative with the colours and shapes, and remember—we’re getting ready for a big classroom display where your kelp forest will shine for everyone to admire!
Create a Calming Sanctuary in Your Classroom
This week’s activity focuses on using students’ kelp forest paintings to create a calming sanctuary in your classroom—a place where children can find peace and safety when they need it. This project goes beyond art; it’s an opportunity to foster a sense of service and community engagement.
As teachers, guide your students in arranging their artwork to transform the space into a soothing environment. Encourage them to think about how light, shadow, and the placement of their paintings can make the sanctuary feel welcoming and calm.
To involve the wider school community, have students create posters to invite others to visit and use the sanctuary. By combining creativity with empathy, this activity teaches children the value of using their skills to help others and build a supportive community. It’s a meaningful way to connect art with real-world impact.
This week, we’ve got a very special project! We’re going to turn your amazing kelp forest paintings into something even more meaningful—a calming sanctuary in your classroom.
Just like the kelp forest provides safety and peace for penguins, your new creation will help your classmates find a quiet space to relax and feel calm. Use the example on the task card to guide you, and follow the instructions to set up your sanctuary.
You’ll arrange your kelp forest paintings, along with light and shadow effects, to create a peaceful atmosphere. Think about how you can make this space feel comforting and safe for anyone who needs it.
You can create a wonderfully relaxing space that not only looks beautiful but also makes a difference for everyone in your school. We can’t wait to see your sanctuary come to life!
