Course Plan: Time and Memory Inspired Sculpture for Year 9 Art

Course Title:

Time and Memory in Sculpture

Course Goal:

To explore and create sculptures that reflect the themes of time and memory, utilizing various materials and techniques while developing critical artistic skills and knowledge.

Course Aims:

1. To understand the formal elements of sculpture and how they can be manipulated to express concepts of time and memory.
2. To gain knowledge of influential sculptors and their works that explore similar themes.
3. To develop the ability to conceive, plan, and create original sculptures using various processes and materials.
4. To enhance collaborative skills through group projects and critiques.
5. To refine critical thinking skills by engaging in discussions and written reflections on art.

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Course Structure

Module 1: Introduction to Sculpture (Lessons 1-5)

1. Lesson 1: Introduction to Sculpture

   • Overview of sculpture definitions and techniques.
   • Discussion and demonstration of 3D elements.

2. Lesson 2: Identifying Formal Elements

   • Analyze line, shape, form, space, texture, and colour in sculpture.
   • Task: Complete a formal elements match task sheet.

3. Lesson 3: Influential Sculptors

   • Artist Research: Henry Moore, Louise Bourgeois, Naum Gabo.
   • Task: Write a brief research piece on an assigned sculptor.

4. Lesson 4: Review and Discussion

   • Group presentations of sculptors.
   • Open-class discussion about influences of time and memory in their works.

5. Lesson 5: Drawing Techniques

   • Introduce cross-hatching and shading in sculpture representation.
   • Task: Complete an A5 ‘Cross Hatch’ drawing.

Module 2: Exploring Concepts (Lessons 6-15)

6. Lesson 6: Concept Development

   • Brainstorming concepts for sculpture that reflect time and memory.
   • Task: Create a mind map for ideas.

7. Lesson 7: Investigating Planar Forms

   • Explore planar constructs: shapes and forms.
   • Group Task: Create a 5-photo documentation of constructed shapes.

8. Lesson 8: Exploring Linear Constructs

   • Focus on line and form in 3D.
   • Group Task: Produce a 5-photo documentation of linear forms.

9. Lesson 9: Conceptual Mind Map Presentation

   • Present mind maps to the class.
   • Group critique on concept clarity and originality.

10. Lesson 10: Mini Amoeba Project Introduction

    • Discuss how objects represent time and place.
    • Task: Bring four or five personal items to class that embody these themes.

11. Lesson 11: Material Exploration

    • Experiment with wrapping and modeling materials: cling film, clay.

12. Lesson 12: Composition Workshop

    • Create a sculptural composition using brought items.
    • Focus on shape emphasis and texture.

13. Lesson 13: Texture and Technique

    • Explore techniques for developing texture in clay.

14. Lesson 14: Sculpture Development

    • Begin creating final sculptures based on previous lessons and concepts.

15. Lesson 15: Peer Review

    • Present ongoing work in small groups for feedback.

Module 3: Finalization and Presentation (Lessons 16-30)

16. Lesson 16: Continuing Sculpture Development

    • Work on incorporating feedback to refine sculptures.

17. Lesson 17: Explore Established Practices

    • Research established sculptures that represent time and memory.
    • Home Learning Task: Create a 1-slide montage of influencing sculptures.

18. Lesson 18: Critique Sessions

    • Conduct group critiques of peer works to encourage reflective practice.

19. Lesson 19: Preparing for Final Piece

    • Final touches on sculptures; focus on presentation aspects.

20. Lesson 20: Exhibition Design

    • Discuss exhibition layouts and presentation styles for final sculptures.

21. Lesson 21: Setup for Exhibit

    • Arrange sculptures in the classroom gallery.

22. Lesson 22: Final Presentations

    • Students present their sculptures to the class, discussing their process and inspirations.

23. Lesson 23: Reflection Session

    • Reflect on learning outcomes and personal growth throughout the project.

24. Lesson 24: Portfolio Development

    • Compile artworks, drafts, and reflections into a final portfolio.

25. Lesson 25: Assessment Criteria Workshop

    • Go through assessment expectations and criteria with the class.

26. Lesson 26: Final Evaluation

    • Self and peer assessment on the sculptural works and engagement.

27. Lesson 27: Artist Statement Creation

    • Write an artist statement reflecting on personal artistic journeys.

28. Lesson 28: Guest Speaker Session

    • Invite a local artist to discuss their practice in relation to time and memory.

29. Lesson 29: Community Engagement

    • Discuss possible community projects related to themes explored.

30. Lesson 30: Course Reflection and Feedback

    • Collect feedback from students regarding the course and projects.

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References

• Moore, H. (1966). Henry Moore: Sculptor.
• Bourgeois, L., & Sussman, M. (2012). Louise Bourgeois: An expanded view.
• Gabo, N. (1968). Naum Gabo: A sculpture.
• Brand, P. (2014). Sculpture: From Antiquity to the Present Day.
• McGowan, C. (2020). The Art of Memory: A Study of Sculpture and Time.
• Huot, J. (2021). Time and Space in Contemporary Sculpture.
• Smith, R. (2019). The Art of Memory in Sculpture Practice.

This course plan serves as a structured guide to exploring the integration of time and memory in the medium of sculpture, fostering creativity and critical understanding among Year 9 students.