S'mores Snack Bites. Simply irrestible.

DELICIOUS!

These irrestible treats disappeared quickly at a recent family gathering. Everyone wanted to know how to make them, especially since my daughter, a busy working mom, said they were FAST and EASY. We like fast and easy when it tastes this good! She found the recipe here: http://www.texascottageblog.com/2011/08/smore-cups.html
Here's the short version: Graham cracker crust (ready made or make up your own using graham cracker crumbs, butter and powdered sugar) pressed into mini muffin tins. Bake at 350 for about 4-5 minutes. Put one small square of Hershey chocolate in each crust. Cut marshmallow in half and place cut side down on top of chocolate. Back into the oven for 1-2 minutes. Let cool/stiffen. Dip in melted chocolate. Ohhhh....

Abstract Painting COLLAGE Method

Abstract Painting

using a magazine collage as your inspiration

Student work (high school introductory art)

Wow...We just finished our abstract paintings using the method demonstrated in a video featuring insrtuctor Jim Cogswell from the University of Michigan School of Art and Design (Great School!). Students created a collage from magazine cutouts, then used the collage as a guide for their painting. The college level paintings are large, thoughtful works of art that are an inspiration to my younger students. After watching the video we all want to take Jim's class!

My high school students LOVED this method. Very often, they simply don't know where to begin with abstract design. Show your students this fascinating video and watch the masterpieces unfold before your very eyes!http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=vG9MSAfOK7g

Because my high school students are at an introductory level, I have slightly amended the process  described in the video to provide a little more direction for students who lack painting experience. I have found my students garner more success when they pre-plan a color scheme. I also introduce the concept of symbolism by requiring students to describe a theme or mood they wish to invoke. The theme should be a short 1- 5 word description or title such as 'summer', 'explosion', or 'hot meets cold'.

 

High school student work:

To see examples and brief instructions for some of my FAVORITE ART PROJECTS IN THE CLASSROOM (High School) click here

Collaborative Art Project PUZZLE PIECE

If you're looking for a classroom project that will teach your students about mixing colors, accurately drawing what they see, collaborating and having FUN this project is for YOU! 

1. You will need TWO identical posters. Cut one of the posters up into same-size rectangles (squares). I cut my poster up into 30 pieces. Each piece is exactly 4" x 3". I laminated the poster before I cut it up.
2. Use a permanant marker to write the number of each rectangle on the backside in sequential order.
3. Cut  rectangles of paper that are larger than the poster piece, but of the same proportion. I made my drawing paper rectangles exactly 6" x 5.5", which is 50% larger than the poster pieces. I could have made them the same size as the poster piece, but then the kids might try to trace the design....that's too easy!
4. Make sure your second, intact poster is not in view so the students won't know what they are drawing.
5. Give each student a puzzle piece and piece of drawing paper. Have them write the number on the backside of their drawing paper. Discuss methods of drawing accurately.
5. Suggest that they hold the puzzle piece next to their drawing to compare if the color they put down is accurate. Modify as needed. Lots of problem solving will be going on. Remind them to add the complimentary color to tone down colors that are too vibrant.
6. Hang a large sheet of paper on the wall. (You will have to do a little math to figure out what size you will need). Glue piece # 1 in the upper left corner and continue gluing pieces in order as they are completed. (this is why you want the fast kids to take the first numbers)
7. As more pieces are added and  the artwork evolves, have the kids guess what it is. Finally, the last rectangle is glued down and you can show them the original artwork uncut poster.
8. Compare the two artworks and discuss the variety of colors, shapes and lines perceived by each individual.

Original poster 'Flowers in the Night' by Gabriele Munter 1941

Student Work    High School Introductory Art Class Collaboration

For more classroom project ideas see http://theskillfulbee.blogspot.com/2013/02/favorite-art-projects-in-classroom.html