Mandy Burgeron
Contributor
Students at James Madison Preparatory High School (JMPHS) are constantly being challenged and encouraged to try new things within their electives. This year, as part of the art program, students in my art 3D class are working through a unit on wood carving and textile art.
Students are being introduced to wood carving techniques, as well as the differences between various types of wood. I began the unit by having the students attempt to categorize and identify different types of wood, ranking them on ease of use for carving.
They then moved on to a simple carving project, where they attempted to make a general shape. This took about four class meetings over the course of two weeks. During this time, they were able to build their confidence in using both balsa and basswood, along with many carving techniques and tools.
Now students are working on their third and final project, a sculpture in the round. Although they are still novice woodcarvers, they are doing a wonderful job and showing much patience in their techniques. In addition to their woodcarving, students are also working on their textile projects. This includes both 3D printed loom weaving and tapestry creations. Throughout the unit, they have gained knowledge in techniques required to weave on a loom and successfully take their projects off the loom to finish the edges.
“I believe that students in school need experience-based learning that really allows them to decide what they enjoy and want to pursue,” said Burgeron. “I love working with them to help them discover and develop their talents and interests. We plan on having an art show, with a digital component, at the end of the year to showcase their learning and achievements, which will include some of their wood carving and textile artworks”.