Oil pastel figure close-ups

This was one of my favorite lessons from last year. (I feel like I always say that....?) 

But seriously, this was great. It would work for a variety of grades- elementary or high school as well. I did it with 7th grade and will again this year. 

Using the move-able figures- students had to create a zoomed/close-up composition using the figure, taking the negative space into consideration. I actually had them do a "photo shoot" with their ipads: take photos of the figures in different positions and then cropped the photos. For some students it was easier for them to work from the photo. 

The students sketched out shaded pencil drawings first. Then they drew them BIG on 12 x 18 slate grey Tru-ray construction paper (one of my favorites, along with their turquoise). 

They chose a color palette to work in and had to have 3 different shades of oil pastels so that they could convey the shadows. 

 They all came out awesome! And it gave students a chance to strengthen a variety of skills. Some needed to master blending, some needed to strengthen their ability to communicate dimension, etc. 

Artsonia, video references, and a new school year

Greetings!
I hope everyone's school year is off to a strong start!

I have a favor to ask-- I am planning to pilot Artsonia with my middle school students. My admin is asking for some references. Do any of you have experience with Artsonia? I'm looking on input.
- How did the launch and set up of it go for you? Would you have done anything differently?
- Is it difficult to maintain?
- How do your parents like it?
- What do you do for marketing of it? Has the fundraising element of it been profitable?
Feel free to comment or email me : rarmentano@rockyhill.org

From my spring art show.

Looking for a great video to introduce or review? I showed this video yesterday and it was awesome. (I think it's wonderful as a review actually - perfect for middle and high school.)
If you're a Frozen fan you have to check this out as well!

Lastly,
Did you see this project Mr. Masse at Zamorano recently did???! - it is super awesome and I can't wait to try it!!!