Sculpture and Juxtaposition

Hi Families,

For this lesson on sculpture, Ms. Bernstein led the class in a collaborative installation project. Our first order of business was to discuss the idea of juxtaposition in depth.  Students discussed the idea of juxtaposition between material, art, color, shape, size and texture. We looked at work by artists such as Nina Katchadourian and Yoan Capote as examples of how pairing things that are different can create tension and interest in an artwork. We also looked at yarn bombing (knit pieces attached to trees, benches and other outdoor objects) as an example of how texture and color can brighten and enliven an urban space.

Peyton's completed form

The students' project was inspired by yarn bombing and the idea of juxtaposition in a sculptural piece. Our materials were simple: we began with colorful yarn, the rings from ice cream container lids, tape rolls, and broken hangers (graciously donated by Ms. Hayes, Beye's beloved substitute teacher and textile designer). Some of the lids were configured as simple looms for students who wished to weave. Students were also invited to wrap and stretch yarn, keeping in mind the idea of contrast between material, color and form.

Carson first "finger knitted" with yarn to create a more dimensional weaving!

Heidi's woven form

After diving in with the materials at hand, students began to incorporate more unusual material in their work, to add textural contrast and unexpected moments. Pipe cleaners, recycled plastic, tulle and other textile "scraps" were soon added to each piece. As the pieces became more dimensional, each student's creation became different in tone.

Shlok at work with circular and oval elements

Emory combining shapes to form new shapes, both positive and negative

As students finished wrapping, weaving, tinkering and tying, Ms. Bernstein collected the pieces, which are now installed on the 2nd floor landing just above the auditorium. Please stop by some time to enjoy this curiously beautiful collaborative sculpture!

Joel and Elijah's collaboration

Wislon, wrapping yarns

Lucy with wrapped sculptural element

Peyton at work

Jackson with a random weaving of materials

Ginger's wrapped disk

Jessica at work

Anika's completed form

Jadon's completed form

Elise (we think her color selection looks familiar : )

Jadon with 2nd form with a focus on negative space

Emory's completed form