An Unconventional Focus on Art!

So I have a new gig this year, I am the Focus  Art teacher for my county. I go to all 8 of our middle schools, to work with students who are identified as gifted in the visual arts. I see each group of students approximately twice a month and meet with them on consecutive days. So far, its been AWESOME!

I have a theme this year for my instruction, and it is "Unconventional." These gifted students are used to drawing with pencil on paper, and painting with acrylic on canvas so I want them to experience new ways to make art!

Our first mini project was for students to create a work of art on a notecard. The size was where the idea of unconventional art came in- I gave them free choice of their subject and materials.

After an unconventional sized work of art, we began talking about the kinetic performance artist Heather Hansen.
Students viewed this video and learned about her art style.

Not one of my students had ever tried drawing with both hands at the same time so it was an interesting project approach for them. They had to begin by using both hands at the same time, their subject could be realistic or abstract.

These works of art are on a piece of 18x24 drawing paper. Students enjoyed working on a larger piece of paper which I taped to the table so that it wouldn't move as they were drawing with both hands. 

It was a great experimental project!