SERIES 6:  Art Connections

Designed as a connection to other subject areas, Series 6 units provide links to literature, math, music and biology while extending problem solving skills

Artists Include:

  • M.C. Escher
  • Rene Magritte
  • John James Audubon
  • Wassily Kandinsky
  • Louise Nevelson
  • Mexican Muralists
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Art and Math
Escher used math and geometry to create some of the most astounding drawings of the 20th century. His famous optical illusions place complicated mathematical theories into the realm of visual art. Students use his work as inspiration for imagination and creativity to create their own impossible geometric shapes.

Art and Expression
No other artist has influence modern advertising as greatly as Magritte. His art challenges the eye to see and the mind to think, while providing never ending possibilities for interpretation. Studio work allows students to create their own surrealist landscapes.

Art and Biology
Audubon's art introduces students to the naturalist as well as scientific illustrator. Assembly programs present his quest to publish a book containing life-sized illustrations of every bird in America. Studio work challenges students to observe and include as many details as possible in their own scientific illustrations of North American birds.

Art and Music
Kandinsky's images are filled with strong, abstract colors and shapes full of feeling. He believed paintings do not have to represent the physical world, and his passion for music inspired him to paint the color of music and the shape of sound. Derived from his work, students create explosive shapes based on a theme to build abstract compositions. 

Art and Aesthetics
Nevelson's abstract sculptures made from ready-made materials such as packing crates and discarded ornaments, inspire students to create smaller relief sculptures of their own. Students use fine-motor skills to learn basic creasing, slitting, and curling techniques as they create their own three-dimensional paper relief compositions. 

Art and Culture
The bigger-than-life sized murals of the Mexican tradition inspire students to collaborate with each other to create their own classroom sized mural in the manner of Diego Rivera. Each student draws a piece of the mural before collectively fitting the pieces all together and deciding on finishing touches.