Lesson Plan #1: 9th Grade: Abstract Drawings and Coil Pots

This is a selection of artworks from our two main units with Freshmen students. The first was an abstract drawing that engaged thoughtfully with composition, line, form, shape, space, value, and color. The students' goal was to create a captivating image without falling back on figurative or representational ideas, which they did! The second series are their Coil Pot projects, where clay coils are shaped into rings and attached, then blended. This technique is a powerful introduction to the tradition of Ceramics, and is thousands of years old. Construction is gradual and demands extended periods of focused work and refinement. These pots are in progress, and will eventually feature embellishments on the outside, when students will have the chance to explore form and texture. Even in their current state, they are striking achievements!