A Big Bunch of Blair Bear Balloons!
by Shelley Schoby
Second grade students were introduced to
the artist, Jasper Johns. Mr. Johns painted the picture, Flag, in
1954. The students’ objective for this lesson was to recognize that
symbols, colors, and patterns on flags represent a country. When
viewing the painting, Flag, one would assume that this flag is very
old because of its rough appearance. Jasper Johns intended this
worn look to represent that the United States of America has
endured many times of unrest. Yet, the flag continues as a symbol
of strength and freedom for all Americans. Students recited the
pledge of allegiance and discussed as a whole what the flag
represents.
The second, artist for this lesson was
Tsing Fang Chen. T.F. Chen painted the work, Burning with Cosmic
Rhythm. This painting is an example of an artist celebrating the
work of another famous artist by imitating his style. It is also a
work that celebrates the USA through the artist’s use of the
American symbol; the Statute of Liberty.
Students were lead in a discussion about
the symbols of our school, such as colors and the mascot. At their
tables, students created their own school symbols. All were
encouraged to use shapes and colors that told about their school.
Each child’s work is joined together to create a united Big Bunch
of Blair Bear Balloons.
