Grade Level: Grades 5 & 6
Subject Area: Visual Art

In our printmaking art class, we not only delved into the world of eco-friendly art but also explored the fascinating Dada movement in art history. 

Just like the Dadaists, who challenged traditional artistic norms and embraced unconventional materials, we too utilized things that would be considered garbage and transformed them into beautiful works of art. By drawing inspiration from the Dada movement, we celebrated the freedom of artistic expression and the beauty of repurposed materials. Our exploration of printmaking with recycled and found objects echoed the Dadaists’ revolutionary spirit, turning everyday items into extraordinary art pieces. 

Through our discussions, we were able to connect the dots between art history and our own creative endeavours, gaining a deeper appreciation for the power of artistic innovation and unconventional materials. It was a thought-provoking journey that sparked new ideas and perspectives, enriching our artistic experience. From experimenting with abstract art and colour mixing to embracing environmental stewardship. 

Our printmaking art class was a testament to the endless possibilities of creativity and the profound impact of art movements like Dada that question current societal norms and expectations so that unconventional doors can open eliciting a wondrous profusion of possibilities. 

Here’s to continuing our artistic exploration with a nod to the past and a vision for the future! 

Objective: Students investigated different kinds of printmaking techniques, such as relief, lino, intaglio and stencil to understand the process and create their own prints.

Learning Objectives:

1. Students explored various art forms and developed their creativity.

2. Students integrated historical and cultural contexts of art.

3. Students experienced hands-on activities that promoted artistic expression and technical skill development.

1. Investigate Printmaking Techniques: Students explored and investiaged different kinds of printmaking techniques, including relief, intaglio, lino and stencil, to understand the processes involved in creating prints.

2. Hands-On Application: Students applied their understanding of printmaking techniques by creating their own prints using the learned methods. They transferred their designs onto printing plates, cut a lino print, utilized stencils and experimented with colours and textures to enhance their prints.

3. Historical and Cultural Context: Students gained an understanding of the historical and cultural significance of printmaking in different societies. This was achieved through discussions and exposure to examples of prints created using various techniques. 

4. Technical Skill Development: Through the demonstration and application of printmaking techniques, students developed technical skills in using printmaking tools, transferring designs, applying in and creating prints.

5. Creativity and Artistic Expression: The lesson encouraged students to explore various art forms and develop their creativity and artistic expression through the creation of their own prints.

These learning objectives aligned with the Ministry of Education’s art curriculum for grades 5 and 6 by promoting exploration of art forms, used mixed media materials, promoted historical and cultural understanding and allowed hands-on activities that fostered creativity and technical skill development.