Petroglyph Figure Sculpture

Multicultural Lesson
Author unknown. If you are the author of this lesson, contact us.
Grades: 2 - 8

 

Description:

Petroglyphs are ancient carvings or engravings in rock. They have been discovered in Australia, Hawaii, Canada, North America, and even the Italian Alps. These rock pictures symbolize events and objects important to the history of each culture. The images tell a simple, yet beautiful story with an economy of line and the strength to endure centuries.

 

This project tells an individual's story. Model Magic people are created and engraved with one of the petroglyphic symbols found in Inkum's Rubber Stamp Kit. Young and old will enjoy making a story person. The addition of swirls of wire and carved exotic beads add an authentic touch to this ancient craft. The finished pieces will be lightweight. Finished Petroglyph People would make unique ornaments or an interesting kinetic mobile.

 

Objectives:

• Students will examine the art of Petroglyphs and learn to recognize the different characteristics of this art form in various cultures.

• Students will explore the use of symbols as a form of non-verbal communication.

  Fremont Indian Creating Petroglyph by Clint McKnight

• Students will use stamps to explore the design elements of pattern and repetition in their artworks.

Materials:

• Model Magic, 2-Lb. Bucket, White

• Chalk 24-Color Set

• Hieroglyphic Stamp Kit

• Styrofoam Trays, Pkg. of 250 (467732-705)

• Fettling Knives

• Mixed Bone Beads

• Beads

• Copper Wire, 1-Lb. Spool (447632-705)

Suggested Resources:

• Aboriginal Art (World of Art)

• Aboriginal Art: Past, Present, and Future [DVD]

• Native Americans- A Tribute- DVD. Also see Native American Design [CD and Book]

• Elements and Principals of Design [DVD]. Make sure you buy the DVD, and the student and teacher books.

Directions:

1. Research the art of petroglyphs from any or all cultures throughout the world that practiced this craft. Some places to start are the Kakadu National Park in Australia, Chinle Wash in Southeastern Utah, and the Canary Islands. Each location has a different style of petroglyph, (also known as a pictograph).

2. Decide which images to use. The Hieroglyphic Stamp Kit has some images reminiscent of petroglyph images. Your students may choose to create their own shapes. Using simple tools they indent their designs directly into the Model Magic. Stamps may be created by dipping yarn in glue and applying the yarn into designs on small pieces of wood or cardboard. When dry they will be ready to press into the Model Magic.

3. Using scissors, cut the shape of a person out of the Styrofoam Trays.

4. Cover the foam with an even layer of Model Magic. It should be approximately 1/8 inch thick. Be sure to cover the edges well and also to cover the back side.

5. While the Model Magic is still soft and moist, press the stamps into the clay. Cover much of the area. Do not press too hard or the shape of the person will be distorted. Reshape if necessary after stamping.

6. Use chalk powder to color the shape. To create the powder, scrub a piece of chalk onto a piece of paper. Use fingers to pick up the chalk dust and rub it onto the Petroglyph person. Be careful not to use too much or to put the chalk into the impressions. The stamped designs will stand out more if left white.

7. Bend wire into swirls or geometric shapes. Thread Beads onto the wire before attaching to the person. A hanger could be created with wire and added at this point. If the end of the wire that is inserted into the clay is bent into a hook shape, it will not pull out, once the Model Magic is dried.

8. Allow the project to dry and it is ready to display. Model Magic is quick drying. It will be dried in less than 24 hours.

National Standards:

Content Standard # 2: Using knowledge of structures and functions.

Grades K-4: Students use visual structures and functions of art to communicate ideas.

Grades 5-8: Students select and use the qualities of structures and functions of art to improve communication of their ideas.

Grades 9-12: Students evaluate the effectiveness of artworks in terms of organizational structures and functions.

Content Standard # 4: Understanding the visual arts in relation to history and cultures.

GradesK-4: Students know that the visual arts have both a history and specific relationship to various cultures.

Grades 5-8: Students know and compare the characteristics of artworks in various eras and cultures.

Grades 9-12: Students analyze common characteristics of visual arts evident across time and among cultural/ethnic groups to formulate analyses, evaluations, and interpretations of meaning.