In our most recent podcast episode, we discussed our favorite clay projects. It was almost impossible to decide on just one or two so we settled for three each and something new we want to try!
One of Laura’s favorite clay projects is making donuts out of clay. Although we know this is no original idea, tying it in with Pop Art, students seem to love it and let their imagination run wild. I also stole this from Laura and enjoys doing it as well. We both use planning sheets where students pretend to order a custom donut and then make a drawing of what they want their donut to look like. So fun! We have one big requirement though in that their donut needs to look real (even though there tends to be some super, extravagant donuts out there nowadays).
Laura also uses clay to teach Expressionism and has students create monsters showing emotion. Ironically, I also used to do a similar project before even meeting Laura. It’s a great way to tie in how colors can also connect to emotions.
For a more nature based clay project, Laura has students create cacti or succulents in a mini pinch pot. Having never done this project myself I can say they are always super successful and I’m envious that I forget it as an idea each year!
One project I absolutely love, and of course no original idea, is making snails with the littles. I’ve slowly upped my game in this using glaze, then switching to color bursting glaze. When students are finished I always add googly eyes and an antenna and they end up with a ton of personality.
I also have students make their own spin on Pueblo Pottery. We typically start with a pinch pot and if they want to make it larger, they can add coils. We use red clay to stay true to Pueblo Pottery but they create their own symbols. I’ve done glaze and Poscas, but those Poscas look AMAZING on red clay!
A coworker of mine has students make dancers out of clay based on Edgar Degas but I had a feeling not every student would be into that idea so I push them into making a person that looks like they’re in motion (would also be great to tie in with Keith Haring). I am pretty sure they get better with each year!
Finally, we both discussed new projects we are hoping to try. Laura just recently tested out a clay dragon for the Lunar New Year and I’m going to tell you right now, it’s adorable. I am planning on taking some inspiration from Amanda Eve (@amandaeve.art) and having students create a tic-tac-toe board with a theme. Made my example the other day and it’s going to be a challenge, but I’m ready!
What are some of your favorite clay projects?
As always…keep blending,
Hayley
Listen to the episode using the link below!
https://anchor.fm/blending-the-rules/episodes/Episode-43Favorite-Clay-Projects-e2ehnrb