Activity 11: Display It! The Gumbo Island Museum of Art

Objective:

Materials:

• Childrens' work from the previous activities
• Information Card handout
• Index cards

Motivational Link:

Activity:

1. Tell the student that they will create a museum called the Gumbo Island Museum of Art, and they will plan a museum opening to invite parents and other guests to visit.
2. Have the students arrange the artwork in an area of the classroom (or plan where it will go for the one special occasion if space is limited).
3. Have each student create a description card of each of his or her works. Use the Information Card provided, photocopy it and let the students fill it in and glue to the index cards.
4. Let each student practice being the tour guide of the museum. Students will need to be able to explain each piece of artwork and how it was created.
5. Let the children write a Press Release/Invition for parents and the press. You will want to type it based on their information. Remember to include Who, What, When, Where, Why and a Contact Person (teacher). Mail to the parents, special guests, and the local newspaper.
6. Invite several adults not related to the students (other teachers, principal, local arts editor, someone from the local Arts Council) to serve as judges for an Art Contest. The key here is that everyone will need to win something: Best Use of Red, Best Overall, Judges' Choice, Best Sculpture, Best Use of Yellow, Best Use of Color, etc. Make sure that every student wins something and that each is recognized for his or her special talent.
7. If you wish, allow students to sell their artwork and postcards for a modest price. Profits might be used to plant a flower garden at the school -- don't forget Clementine Hunter's zinnias!