Art

Grady and Dixson K-6 Art Program Overview

Welcome to Art at Dixson and Grady!!! Students are welcomed into a comfortable, supportive environment where they are inspired to learn about the visual arts without feeling self conscious. They are encouraged to try new things, take chances / push themselves farther and to have fun!!!. Through a variety of hands-on experiences, students develop essential skills and gain an appreciation for art.

 

Philosophy

The foundation of the art program is based in the belief that every student is an artist! We are all individuals and we celebrate each person’s unique style. We embrace the process of exploration and experimentation, encouraging students to discover their unique artistic voices while building confidence and problem-solving abilities. Art education is about more than just creating beautiful objects; it’s about promoting critical thinking, developing creativity, and connecting students with different styles of Art, cultures, histories, and perspectives through the world of art. Our approach is process-focused, meaning we value the experience of creating art as much as the final product. The Art room is where mistakes are seen as opportunities for learning, and every project allows students to push boundaries, take risks, and explore new ideas.

 

Materials and Techniques

Our K-6 art students work with a variety of materials and tools, gaining exposure to different media and artistic techniques throughout the year. These include:

• Drawing and Painting: Students explore two-dimensional art using pencils, markers, crayons, colored pencils, watercolors, oil pastels, tempera paint, and acrylics.
• Collage and Mixed Media: Children experiment with scissors, paper, fabric, glue, and other materials to create layered artworks that combine supplies.
• Sculpture and 3D Art: Students are introduced to clay, wire, cardboard, and recyclable materials to build three-dimensional pieces, helping them understand form, structure, and spatial relationships.
• Printmaking: Basic printmaking techniques such as stamping, rubbing, and mono-printing are explored, providing a tactile and engaging way to make multiple works of art.
• Textiles and Fiber Arts: Students may have opportunities to explore sewing, weaving, and other fiber-based crafts, connecting them to art traditions worldwide.

As students progress through the grades, they master different techniques and build on their knowledge of various artistic genres and cultural arts.

Skills Development 

The K-6 art program is designed to help students develop both technical art skills and broader cognitive abilities, including:

• Drawing and Design Skills: From basic shapes/lines to complex compositions, students learn how to organize space and create balance.
• Color Theory: Young artists explore the color wheel, primary and secondary colors, complementary colors, and how to use color to express mood and emotion.
• Texture and Pattern: Students experiment with creating textures through various media and explore repeating patterns to enhance their work.
• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Through the art-making process, children learn to think critically, make decisions about their work, and learn to revise and improve their creations.
• Art History and Appreciation: Students are introduced to the lives and works of famous artists, art movements, and global art traditions, which inspire them and provide context for their own creative endeavors.
• Fine Motor Skills: Activities such as cutting, gluing, drawing, and painting help strengthen fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, which are crucial for overall development.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to collaborate, share their ideas and build a sense of community and appreciation for the creative process. Interdisciplinary projects help to reinforce information from other disciplines. Students use Sketch-N-Write journals to incorporate writing with their drawings. Reflections, new vocabulary, thoughts, descriptions, sequence of steps, etc., are some ways they do this. 

Bulletin Board displays throughout the school showcase students' work, celebrating their growth as young artists. Art is an essential part of a well-rounded education, and it’s exciting to watch our students explore, create, and grow as they develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Rotating artwork displayed on school bulletin boards showcases the incredible artwork our Elmsford artists have made. I am always impressed and amazed by their creativity!!