EARLY CHILDHOOD

Julia L. Hovanec

This lesson designed for Pre-K learners is inspired by the book Claymates, written by Dev Petty and illustrated by Lauren Eldridge (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2017). It is a forty-five minute lesson in which students discover that throughout time and across cultures, humans have been inspired by other people, by what they see, and by what they learn.

Defining Inspiration
We start with a pre-assessment. I ask students, “What do you know about inspiration?” and “If someone says they were inspired by something, what does that mean?” I then explain that inspiration is when someone or something moves you to create or do something.

This lesson introduces a contemporary artist, uses a book as a hook, and provides students the freedom to explore and create any kind
of creature they want.

A line of inquiry follows. I ask students, “Do you know that artists and people are often inspired by other artists and people?” I share that people are also inspired by what they see and what they learn.

Clay Exploration
After our discussion, I tell students they will listen to the book Claymates and learn about an inspirational artist. Then theyʼll create colorful creatures using modeling clay.

Before we read the book aloud, I ask students to notice the ways the book describes how the clay is formed into different animals and shapes. After reading the book, I guide students in another line of inquiry with a focus on basic handbuilding techniques.

Students then learn about artist Petra Lloyd and her animal sculptures. I ask students “What do you think inspired Petra to create her animal sculptures? How are they inspiring you right now?”

Working with Modeling Clay
Each student receives a ball of white air-dry modeling clay and a 5 x 5" piece of cardboard with their name written on it. I demonstrate basic clay techniques (coil, slab, ball, and pinch), and students follow along and experiment with their modeling clay. Next, students use what they have learned to form the clay into a creature of their choice.

Students build their creature on their piece of cardboard, being careful not to cover up their name. I pass out watercolor paints, brushes, water cups, and paper towels. Students paint their sculpture before the modeling clay dries.

Reflection
To culminate the lesson, students introduce their creature to the rest of the class: “My creature is___. It likes___. It lives in___.” After they share their creatures, students assist with cleanup. Once the creatures are completely dry in a day or two, a coat of clear acrylic medium is applied to keep the paint from fading.

This lesson is engaging and a perfect way to introduce Pre-K learners to basic clay handbuilding techniques. It introduces a contemporary artist, uses a book as a hook, and provides students the freedom to explore and create any kind of creature they want.

Julia L. Hovanec is an associate professor of art education at Kutztown University in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. hovanec@kutztown.edu
Inspirational Creatures