Eco Art Sculptures

A 7th Grade Art Lesson

Central Focus (Big Idea): Community

Over the last several decades, our planet has seen a rise in population, swiftly followed by a rise in pollution, overflowing landfills, and environmental destruction. Contemporary artists have begun to raise their voices and use their craft to draw attention to these issues. This unit will focus on using art to create positive social and environmental change. Students will study contemporary artists who create art to raise awareness and learn how an artists material choices can work to elevate the art and gain a voice of their own. Students will create relief or 3D sculptures that represent natural forms created from man-made recyclable or found materials.  Students will be allowed to work in groups in order to emphasize a sense of community.

Social Issue of the Lesson:

The concept in this lesson deals with discovery of power as an artist within a community, and how artwork can be used to create awareness of social issues. Students will reflect on their personal experiences to connect with their community by creating natural forms out of materials that contribute to waste among humans. Sculptures will be displayed within the school to emphasize the aspect of community and making a difference in society through art making.

Essential Questions:

• What recycled materials would you use in your art?

• Why do people throw away materials that can be recycled?

• How can artists help raise awareness?

• How does artwork tell a story and communicate to others?