Submitted by Tehya Tarkinton, of Kirby Public Schools in Arkansas
Grade Level: 7th - 12th grade
Lesson: "Cave Painting" Art History

Materials:

• flat rocks (not too heavy, not too big)
• pastel chalks (earth tones)
• charcoal (for shading)
• vine
• adhesive such as JB Weld (for attaching the vine).
• Spray fixative - or clear acrylic spray

Procedure:

While studying prehistoric art I asked my students to each bring in their own medium-sized flat rock. After viewing images from Lascaux and Alta Mira, we also looked at typical symbols of animals & hunters drawn by cave artists.

Using pastel chalks (similar to earth pigments--earth tones only) the students were to draw an image/ or images onto their rock. Afterwards we "framed" these with intertwined vine (honeysuckle, or grape vine). The art then is displayed for non-art students to see along with a brief overview of prehistoric art.

This project enhanced the lecture & the students really enjoyed it--even the ones that thought they "couldn't draw". One of the nice things about this project is that if you have a limited budget & large classes this is VERY inexpensive!