A Mexican Cultural Adventure.

A multicultural art lesson is a great way for children to experience another culture. In my lessons, I strive to bring my students artwork close to the original ideas and techniques of the artisans we are studying. I think this forms a greater appreciation of the people as well as their craft.

This bark painting project allows students to recreate Mexican folk art, while still allowing for originality. It not only teaches children the basics of perspective, paper making, and painting, but also introduces them to the agricultural culture of Mexico.

Traditional Bark Painting

To begin, I show my students examples of real bark paintings. Through comparison and discussion of the various works, my students begin to compile a list of the common characteristics of Mexican bark paintings. They quickly notice that handmade paper is an important characteristic of this folk art. In addition to this delicate paper, they usually mention the bright colors, simple shapes, and black outlines. The subject of farm life and the crops produced in Mexico are also touched upon.

Not so apparent to them at first glance is the lack of perspective and proper proportions. I point this out and they then discover that most of the objects in the paintings are the same size and tend to be just stacked from top to bottom without regard for proper perspective. By the end of this discussion, the students are well prepared and eager to begin.

Modern Paper Making

My students begin the production part of this project by making their own paper, just as the Mexican people do. While demonstrating our paper making method, I compare it to the Mexican method. I explain their process of shredding wild fig tree bark and soaking it repeatedly until it starts to break down into a pulpy liquid. Instead we use shredded recycled paper and a blender to expedite the process. This pulp is then poured into a large container and each student pulls a screen slowly up from the bottom. The pulp forms a thin layer across the screen. Next, they flip the screen onto newsprint and soak up the excess water with a sponge. When they pull off the screen gently, a wonderful natural grain paper is left behind.

Incredible Colorful Paintings

At the beginning of the next class, I show my students the difference in texture of this paper as compared to our factory made construction paper. After a quick review of the characteristics, my students begin to draw with fine line markers. I have found that pencils tear the delicate paper and spoil the children's spontaneity. The students complete this artwork by painting with flourescent colors. The paint is dulled a bit by the brown recycled paper and seems to show up best. The students results are incredible.

Something that could have been easily taught as a simple painting on brown construction paper turns into a cultural adventure. Taking students through the entire process of an art form is a great way to learn about a culture, and for me is the most rewarding.

NATIONAL STANDARD

Students know that the visual arts have both a history and specific relationships to various cultures.

Donna Wright is an art teacher at Polk Elementary School in Oakville, Connecticut.