Once in a while young artists need to make something a little more than art that simply hangs on the wall. They want more! So we decided to try working in 3D, and the kids wanted to try papier mache'.
This two-week project was a lot of fun and our artists were thrilled with their papier mache' sculptures!
The first step is to decide what to make. All of our artists decided to make some sort of bird.
The next step is to construct the "skeleton" of the object using materials like cardboard, newspaper, and masking tape.
Next, the object is covered with strips of newspaper dipped into a papier mache' solution. Our recipe was 1 cup white flour, 2 cups very warm water, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 bottle white glue.
Notes: the solution should be mixed, and then whisked until all lumps are removed and it has the consistency of pancake batter. Papier mache' can be stored no more than a few days in the refrigerator in a covered bowl or jar.
The art object is then allowed to dry, at least 24 hours, until it is stiff and hard.
Now it's time to paint! This artist is painting her crow using resource photos found in an Audubon Field Guide.
If the art object was to going to be a light color, such as this snow owl, it needed be pre-painted first using flat white paint (or gesso) to hide the newspaper ink. Then, after the underpainting dried, the artist could proceed painting the object as desired.
This artist is adding details to her life-size peregrine falcon.
Once the paint is dry, the sculpture is sprayed with glossy sealant, and additional elements can be added, such as talons made from bent wire.
These artists definitely want to try papier mache' again!
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