Second Grade
Wonder Collages
During this eight class unit, second graders determined places that hold wonder in the world. We began this unit with the book Everywhere, Wonder by Matthew Swanson and Robbi Behr. This book and unit are about finding wonder in places you wouldn't typically notice—taking a closer look at things. During the process, we learned about layering, thumbnail sketching, composition, and watercolor techniques.
Students made their own paper with watercolor and salt. After making the treated papers, students cut up and reassembled the pieces to create their image of wonder. Students' collages were about the most amazing thing they had seen in a book of movie, or the most beautiful thing they had ever seen.
Student Work
Brief Overview
Big Idea: Ordinary to Extraordinary
Essential Question: Where can you find wonder in the world?
Focus Artists/Concepts: Mindfulness, Layering, Robbi Behr, Ellie Honl, Allison Kunath, and Lynda Goldberg.
Final Artwork: Watercolor Collage with Artist Statement
Focus Artist
Ellie Honl
Ellie Honl received her BA in studio art from St. Olaf College and MFA in Printmaking with a minor in Intermedia from the University of Iowa where she graduated with honors. She is currently in her second year as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Indiana University.
Much of her artwork has investigated psychology and perception, utilizing varied printmaking techniques along with photographic and time-based media. Her images are constantly influenced by her love of geometry, nature, and color. Her artwork as been widely exhibited across the United States and is included in many national collections.