Editor's note - Editorial

Arts & Activities, Feb, 2004 by Maryellen Bridge

The wonder of clay is what we are exploring in this month's issue. We start things off with our Cover Story, "Sea Treasures ... An Interview with Debbie Weinstein" (page 18), where Ms. Weinstein shares her thoughts on teaching and making art. Her ceramic pieces should appeal to students of all ages, and inspire many to try the projects she shares on page 19 and 21.

"From Simple Posts to Pillars of Character" (page 32) details the process that led to a total transformation of a school's outside entrance and resulted in an impressive work of community and school art. The "six pillars" of caring, citizenship, fairness, respect, responsibility and trustworthiness were showcased in beautiful ceramic the columns.

In "Clay Construction: Theme Pots" (page 34) students make pots, with attention to the role of form and texture to their design. They come to understand clay's place in history, the sources of clay, and become acquainted with tools, equipment and techniques used when working with clay.

"Southwestern Clay Medallions" (page 35) is another great way to introduce students to the significance of clay and pottery. This time, the designs of the Pueblo tribes of the Southwest serve as inspiration as youngsters construct medallions using the slab technique. Proudly wearing the results of their work, the students could hardly contain their enthusiasm and feelings of satisfaction.

Clay is a medium that lends itself to all levels of skill, as "Artful Inclusion: Fun & Function with Clay" (page 36) illustrates. As kids create ice cream bowls and goblets, they increase skills in such areas as problem-solving, basic math, expressive and receptive language skills, and much more. There's no excuse not to try working with clay!

Inspiration is provided by the past in "Art Across the Curriculum: The Scoop on the Dish" (page 22). Who knew we could learn so much about geography, history, science and language from a simple plate from China? This particular plate has quite the story to tell, and you and your students will enjoy delving into it.

More inspiration is provided by "Learning From Exhibitions: Picasso ... 25 Years of Edition Ceramics from the Edward & Ann Weston Collection" (page 29). Here, students will learn about this not-so-well-known aspect of Picasso's work. This exhibition is traveling to many cities through 2006, so check the itinerary on page 31 to see when it might be in your area.

With the many ways of sharing this medium with your students, and with all of its different forms, there is no excuse not to explore the wonder of clay.