2nd graders created beautiful winter themed artwork inspired by This Project at deepspacesparkle.com. Students began by creating “magic paper.” We drew a line down the middle and created patterns with lines and shapes on one side using black and white oil pastels. Students painted over their drawings with liquid watercolors and were amazed when the white lines resisted the colors. On the other side, students dripped the watercolors and added salt to create a really beautiful effect.

Next, it was time to create birch trees. Students cut strips of white paper and used cardboard to stamp black lines. We looked at pictures of birch trees and talked about visual texture. This step was incredibly messy but very fun.

Students glued their trees to a piece of colorful construction paper.

The kids were so excited to use their “magic” paper to create birds. They were so creative with their shapes to make beaks, wings, and tails and added great details.

Next it was time to draw branches onto the trees with crayons.

Then came what many 2nd graders deemed to be the most fun part: finger painting! We talked about depth and how things in front are closer than the things that they overlap. Students used ONE finger to dip in white paint and make it snow in their artwork.

This project was so successful because even though all of the students made the same thing (birds in trees with snow) they all look so different. I love when the outcome of an art project allows for creativity and freedom and fosters student’s individuality. Check out these beautiful masterpieces:

Students who finished early could write a story about their birds and here is one that is adorable and great:

2nd graders will begin their sculpture unit next week — we are making roller coaster hats!