Exchanging ideas with artists on the internet

A couple of years ago, in early September, I began a search via the World Wide Web. I was looking for an internationally known artist whose work I would present to my students in order to broaden their understanding of cultures and traditions.

I came across the Web site of contemporary Maori artist, John Bevan Ford. What began as a simple introductory lesson on using the Web as a resource tool became a multifaceted project, thanks to Mr. Ford's insight, guidance and encouragement.

Using examples of Mr. Ford's work, I guided class discussions on: cultural identity; the universality of art; using [visual] art to communicate; interpretive art; recognizing various sources for ideas; the processes involved in the production of art, from thought to completion; and identifying a theme that the children could "translate into their own images, impacting their perceptions and understanding."

We continued our class discussions using the principles of "togetherness inherent in large-scale migrations" and migration as a necessity for survival. This led us to consider creating flocks of birds to represent the need for human togetherness for survival, More specifically, we discussed the importance of exploring different beliefs and customs to develop respect and tolerance.

Third-grade students created colored pencil drawings using line and repetitive patterns to represent birds and their migratory patterns. Fourth-grade students created stylized birds using wire, papiermache, paint and colorful paper feathers. Emphasis was placed on capturing movement in their pieces. Fifth-graders modeled stylized birds in clay. The cobalt-blue represents the color of the sky and ocean. The multicolored glitter represents knowledge gleaned from many cultures and the hope of a future rooted in respectful tolerance.

As a result of this positive interchange, I encourage other art teachers to explore the possibilities of exchanging ideas with world-class artists via the Internet.

Judith F. Ide teaches art at Boevers Elementary School in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

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