ZENDALAS

I like to begin each quarter relearning the elements and principles of art.  Then we do a project that I consider a playground to experiment with the elements and principles.   

For 6th graders that playground is the Zendala project.  I enjoy this project because it is rich with cultural significance but also dashed with a contemporary twist.  The idea is they are creating a design that is symbolic of themselves.  Every choice they make is a step towards personal expression.  The first decision everyone makes is what type of balance they would like to use - radial, symmetrical, or asymmetrical.  I don't hold back that radial is a challenge for me personally, since it requires such precision; it would drive me crazy.  Although some do enjoy this challenge.  We are all different and this simple fact should be celebrated in everything we do and make. 

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