In Art during Term 2, our Years 3 and 4 girls explored the colours, textures, shapes and forms of birds and animals in the Australian outback. 

Class discussions, library books, the internet, and explorations of work of other artists informed the girls’ artworks.  

In Year 3, students explored a variety of Australian animals when deciding what to model in clay. They looked at the artwork of Heather Ellis and Dean Bowen, local contemporary artists, for inspiration. 

We discussed the posture, shape and texture of animals and used the knowledge gained to inform students’ designs in their visual diaries and ultimately, 3D ceramic sculptures.  

To facilitate deeper learning, the Year 3 students completed research projects on their chosen animal in class with Ms Stride and Mr Russell. These were recorded by students onto QR codes and can be listened to via mobile phone whilst viewing the sculptures. 

Year 4 students learnt about harmonious and complementary colour for a painting of a kookaburra. They used their visual diaries to complete trials, exploring colour, line and shape when developing their style and technique to refine their imagery. 

Looking at the work of Jessie Breakwell, Del Kathryn Barton and Geoffrey Carran, we explored different ways to manipulate the paint to create a range of visual effects, including large areas of colour layered with fine pattern. Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree was performed in Music Class with Ms Dhono Isworo to extend the girls’ learning. 

‘Feathers, Fur and Scales’ is an exhibition of our Years 3 and 4 girls’ work which can be viewed in the Neilma Gantner Gallery Walk at the entrance to the Barbreck Auditorium. 

To view the Exhibition Catalogue please click here.