Students are guided to design an imaginary creature that is personally relevant to them by sketching it and describing its characteristics, following specifications provided by the teacher.

Students are then guided through the process of how to create with paper maché and how to construct with repurposed objects such as cardboard, paper, cans, bottles, boxes, etc. A connection is made between art and ecological responsibility by asking the students to discuss if objects made out of recycled materials are still considered art.

The major component of this project is process. Through trial and error, students use two-dimensional elements to create three-dimensional forms. They are provided images, steps and ideas of how this could be done but ultimately, their attempt to apply those ideas to their unique design is where they magic happens and the classroom becomes a physics and design lab. By watching and learning from each other, they try, correct, start over and repeat as they find solutions that work for them. Frustration is welcome because it just allows them to see where they can grow.

Once constructed and covered in paper maché, the designs are painted and presented. On the surface, these creatures may range from simple to complex or from cute to grotesque, but the invisible value – the process – is transformative to their creator.

Some pictures from this process: