I've given a variety of summative projects over the years, and this year's grade 9-10 is probably my favourite. This time, students were asked to create Artist Trading Cards- small, unique pieces of art on 2.5 x 3.5 inch cards that are to be traded after completion. For more information on this world-wide phenomenon, try http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artist_trading_cards. Students used pencils, chalk, pastel, marker, cut-outs, beads, string, felt, paper, etc. in order to create art that focused on the elements and principles of art and design. In order to create some focus, students followed a series of themes, including Cold, Space, Time, Landscape, Sports, Art History, and two of their choice. From the political to the whimsical, no two cards are alike. This project kept students creatively engaged each day, and creating a small piece of art seemed to be less worrisome. What a way to wrap up our semester, way to go everybody!
