Petroglyph People
Multicultural
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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.
Students will use stamps to explore the design elements of pattern and repetition in their artworks.
Materials:
Suggested Resources:
Directions:
- 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).
- 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.
- Using scissors, cut the shape of a person out of the Printmaking Tray.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
1-Lb. Spool (447632-705)
