Creating Story Textiles: A Year 5 Art Course
Course Introduction
Welcome to "Creating Story Textiles," a creative and engaging course designed for Year 5 students. In this course, we will explore the fascinating intersection of textiles and storytelling, drawing inspiration from the works of renowned artists such as Jennie Baker and literature that reflects themes of belonging. Throughout our nine lessons, students will develop their skills in textile art while discovering how textiles can be used as an expressive medium to tell stories. By the end of this course, students will create their own unique story panels that represent personal narratives and connect with broader themes of belonging and identity.
Course Goals and Aims
Goals
- To introduce students to the world of textile art and its narrative possibilities.
- To help students understand how storytelling can be communicated visually through textiles.
- To empower students to express their personal stories through creative art-making.
Aims
- Develop an appreciation of textile art and its historical and cultural significance.
- Analyze examples of narrative textiles in literature and art.
- Strengthen creative thinking and brainstorming skills through story development.
- Engage in hands-on textile projects, enhancing practical art-making skills.
- Foster collaboration and sharing among peers throughout the creative process.
Lesson Plan Overview
Lesson 1: Introduction to Story Textiles
- Objective: Students will understand the concept of storytelling through textiles.
- Activities: Discussion on textiles in stories. Show examples of artworks, including Jennie Baker’s work. Brainstorm ideas about personal stories.
Lesson 2: Exploring Narrative Textiles
- Objective: Analyze narrative aspects of textiles through literature and artworks.
- Activities: Read a short story or excerpt with textile themes. Discuss and reflect on how textiles enhance storytelling.
Lesson 3: The Elements of a Story
- Objective: Identify key elements of storytelling (character, setting, conflict, resolution).
- Activities: Group brainstorming session where students outline the elements of their personal stories.
Lesson 4: Brainstorming Personal Stories
- Objective: Coherently articulate personal stories and experiences that can be depicted visually.
- Activities: Guided individual writing exercise to recount a personal story. Share stories in pairs or small groups.
Lesson 5: Introduction to Textile Techniques
- Objective: Learn basic textile techniques (e.g. sewing, weaving, dyeing).
- Activities: Demonstration of techniques. Hands-on practice with small fabric samples.
Lesson 6: Designing a Story Panel
- Objective: Plan and sketch a story panel based on the chosen personal narrative.
- Activities: Create a preliminary design of their story panel incorporating elements from their personal stories.
Lesson 7: Creating the Textile Story Panel (Part 1)
- Objective: Begin constructing the textile story panel using chosen techniques and materials.
- Activities: Work on assembling the story panel, applying textile techniques learned, incorporating colors and shapes.
Lesson 8: Creating the Textile Story Panel (Part 2)
- Objective: Continue and complete construction of the textile story panel.
- Activities: Finalize the panels, including sewing pieces together, adding details, and making adjustments.
Lesson 9: Presentation and Reflection
- Objective: Share and reflect on the completed textile story panels.
- Activities: Students present their panels to the class, explaining their stories. Engage in a group reflection on the creative process and what was learned.
Conclusion
Through "Creating Story Textiles," students will gain practical skills in textile art while exploring the rich narrative potential of fabrics. By examining literature and their own experiences, students will learn the art of storytelling through textiles, culminating in an inspiring showcase of their personal stories. This course aligns with the Victorian Curriculum, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and artistic expression.