Mixed Media Around the World- Mexico

In this term, my students and I were “travelling” around the world and learning about different artists and Folk Art. I chose Mexico because of its rich culture and folk art and of course, creating a piñata could be a fun project for the kids!

While "visiting" Mexico, we ate chips, salsa, sour cream & guacamole and watched a fun episode of "Dora The Explorer", the Mexican girl that teaches Spanish to children on T.V. After the episode, we left the room for an adventure around the school. Each child got a "map" like Dora The Explorer and we went looking for a hidden piñata! We had to make a few stops along the way to decide which way to go. We found and guessed hidden riddles as well... until we found our way to the piñata. Each child got a bag with toys to fill up their own project!

Teaching paper-mache is not an easy task and I took the challenge despite all...

In this term, the group was large (21 children), with age ranges of 5 to 11. Paper-mache takes a long time, with a few steps involved and many kids don't like the feeling of dry glue in their hands! Here are some amazing results from this complicated process:

I began collecting recycled materials last January and by March, I had enough shoe boxes, yogurt containers, toilet paper rolls, large and small plastic containers, pizza boxes for all the 21 children.

The assignment was to choose a number of containers and assemble an animal of their choice. Some kids decided to create other objects, such as TVs. Most chose to create animals such as giraffes, elephants, dogs and mice. These photos show some of the various shapes and animals that were created.

When planning my art classes, I try to imagine the impact and the inspiration art projects will make in my students. Once children are presented with materials and a goal, they develop their own interpretations and immerse in their own creative journey. It is a pleasure to witness!

Children displaying their creations with pride and joy!
This is the third and last blog post of the series “Around The World- 2”.

"The stories you believe to be true are the ones your life will become"with love, Jazmin
Visit my website at  Jazmin Sasky