Fifth and sixth grade students at Currier Memorial have been looking at the work of James Rizzi. Rizzi is a Pop Artist, best known for his brightly colored animated cityscapes that are rich, full, and bubbling over with life. Both fifth and sixth grade students made a strong connection with his work. His cartoon-like drawing style was a big hit with everyone and who can resist his cheerful style? We looked at lots of examples of Rizzi's work and picked apart the elements of his style. Each student completed a rough draft of a Rizzi-style building and when they were satisfied with the result work began on a large scale Rizzi City.
I'm so impressed by the commitment both classes have put forward on this large undertaking. Kids have really put their heart and soul into this project and it's a joy to watch them work. Fifth graders transferred their designs to mural paper students outlined with ink and brush or with sharpie pen. Colored pencils were used for the small details. Larger areas were painted in using liquid watercolor. When the buildings are dry we'll add the background colors.
Oh my gosh these buildings are hysterical! I'm not familiar with the artist James Rizzi but will look him up, as I just LOVE this project - so much joy in them!
ReplyDeleteI've done this too in my classes. We made a group work of it. It is still hanging in our school! http://kidsartists.blogspot.com/2009/05/in-de-stijl-van-james-rizzi.html
ReplyDeleteI just saw another post about these Happy Houses at http://herdabbles.blogspot.com/2010/11/inspired-by-happy-rizzi-house.html
ReplyDeleteI started this project on a whim. I wanted something fun and easy to, to restore life and energy after a couple intense days of standardized testing that happens each year in Vermont. It was just what the doctor ordered...a big hit with both classes. I will definately try this again but tweek my plan a little.
ReplyDeleteYour mural looks awesome Jacqueline, I have a feeling your students loved this artist, too. Thanks for posting your links ladies.
Barb, I love that you think about what's going for the kids and gauge your lessons and activities to meet their needs and interests. What a fun way to deliver "therapy" after too many hours of sitting and filling in little circles! Bravo!
ReplyDeleteHi Victoria! Thanks for visiting our blog and for you so kind comment. What's the good word for the day....REPORT CARDS are DONE! Yes. Finally!
ReplyDeleteBarbara, Love your kids projects! Rizzi is a great artist to work with and the kids do really love his work. They are able to be free and creative. I hope you have luck getting in contact/sending your pictures to Henry Welt. Thanks for keeping the Rizzi conversation going. I will have to link to your blog on my next post.
ReplyDeleteI sent an e mail to Henry Welt today and am so happy to be able to share our photos this way. I can't wait to tell the kids that the artist takes an interest in this way.
ReplyDeleteI think they will be very pleased. Thanks again for sharing this information. I'm so pleased for you and your students. Your letter is something to really cherish!