Few creative subjects are as captivating as the human and animal form. From representational to abstract, to heroic, to whimsical, the interpretations are endless. Kindergarten through 4th grade and staff, were directed by the art teacher, Mrs. Libby, to create a figure out of clay in any form or way that inspires them. The only requirements for the artists to consider were, that the figure had to be built well and strong and it had to stand up (lay down) somehow. Mrs. Libby accommodated different grade levels by teaching ceramic skill sets developmentally appropriate for each grade. In order to fully represent Bacich school community, the teaching staff had a chance to shape and mold a figure as well. All together we have completed close to 700 figures representing the creativity of our school community.
Materials and Techniques:
We used 950 lbs. of Laguna low fire red clay. The figures were bisque fired at a temp. of 1950 degrees. We used two different polishing techniques to achieve a variation of brown shades. The lighter figures were clear glazed with Mod Podge. The darker wood toned patina was achieved by applying shoe polish to the fired red clay and buffing the surface with brushes and rags. Both glazing and polishing techniques insures that the figures are water proof.
The figures are grouped by class. The artists may take their figures home at the end of the school year.
The figures are grouped by class. The artists may take their figures home at the end of the school year.
