Melanie Robinson

Every year at my school, we teach the fourth- and fifth-graders a unit of Greek mythology. Students learn about the many gods and goddesses and their epic stories. To support their learning, students create artworks inspired by amphoras and other Grecian vessels during art class.

Examining Grecian Pottery
Since students have a background in Greek mythology, we relate it to the images found on Grecian pottery. I begin with some background information on these vessels, and we have a discussion about the fact that many of the images found on the amphoras represent stories of Greek deities. I focus on the myth of Herakles and the Nemean Lion and show them an image of an amphora illustrated with a scene from this story. We discuss the decor on these vessels, including the stories depicted and how the repeated patterns create a unified design. Students learn about the firing process and the difference between red-figure and black-figure pottery. Students are shown a variety of styles of Grecian pottery and learn about the function of each.

Crafting Original Stories
I tell students they will each sketch a design of their own mythological story. Their stories can be personal or based on an existing myth; whichever they choose, I encourage them to put their own original spin on their story.

Students love reading the mythological tales their classmates have invented or retold in their own unique way.

Using a large sheet of black construction paper, students cut out the shape of a vessel and transfer their drawing onto it. I ask them to add a repeated design in pencil to their vessel, encouraging them to emulate patterns created by ancient Greek artists. Using a gold marker, students add color to their pieces to reflect the red-figure style used by the Greeks.

Students write their mythological tale on a sheet of paper and adhere it to the back of their completed vessels.

Conclusion
Students are always very engaged in this project, and they love reading the mythological tales their classmates have invented or retold in their own unique way.

I provided students with links to websites for background information and activities, like the one listed below.

Melanie Robinson is a K–5 art teacher at Cedar Springs Elementary in House Springs, Missouri. mrobinson@northwestschools.net; maprobinson@yahoo.com

Original Mythologies