Accordian Books

In Bookmaking and Illustration we have been working hard to create unique and dynamic Accordian Books.  Like the instrument, these books expand once opened to display images. 

•  We started with a basic accordian book where we folded a long strip of paper using accordian folds. 
• Next we used tube water colors to create an abstract wash on watercolor paper.  We used this "painted paper" to cover the front and back covers.
•  Paper was cut 1/2" larger on all sides so that it can be folded over to nicely to cover the edges of the mounting board.  Squares were cut from the corner so the paper lies flat.  Covers can be created using any heavy weight cardboard--the backs of used notebooks or mat board works well. We used Nori paste to keep wrinkles to a minumum, plus it is repositionable!
•  Next, ribbon was attached to the books--a long strip (or 2 strips) of ribbon was glued to the back of the accordian folded paper and both covers.  This allowed the book to open and expand and for it to be tied closed.  
• Embellishment with buttons, metallic paint markers, collage items...etc.

In addition to a basic accordian book, we also created pocket accordian books. 
 The paper is folded the same, except it is made wider so you can fold the bottom up to create a pocket in the pages.  The pockets can be used to store photos, business cards, or any other flat image.   We embellished these books with embossed metal that was antiqued with india ink.  We also strung beads and attached them to the covers.  These turned out beautiful!

Erin's Pocket Accordian Book

Erin's Accordian Book Cover--she used two ribbons

The inside of Erin's Accordian Book

The cover of Sydney's Accordian Book

Sydney's Book when opened

Hannah's Pocket Accordian Book

Sydney's Pocket Accordian Book--Flash Cards were placed inside, What a great idea!

Miss Vanessa's Pocket Accordian Book

Klimt's Cozy Quilts

In Model Masters we explored the ornamental art of Gustav Klimt.  Klimt was an Austrian artist whose work is inspired by his gold engraving background.  He's considered to be part of the Art Nouveau movement, which was popular from around 1880 to 1915.  

 The Art Nouveau style is characterized by:

•  organic, mostly floral and plant inspired motifs
•  highly stylized swirling forms
•  spirals
•  metallic elements
•  curling scrolls

This style became popular in paintings, sculptures, architecture, furniture, fabrics, and jewelry.  We were especially inspired by Klimt's "Cradle" painting, which features a baby wrapped in warm colorful quilts with lots of patterns.

Supplies:

Tube Watercolors

11"x15" watercolor paper

Styrofoam plates for palettes

Metallic paint markers-I like Sakura

Fine Point Black Sharpie

I began this Art Nouveau art project having student take turns coming up to the white board and filling a square with different patterns and designs.  This part of the project was especially fun as students were given the chance to brainstorm and come up with a unique design to add to our "line and pattern vocabulary"

1. We then began our art projects by drawing a simplified self-portrait at the top of watercolor paper.  We add a variety of curvy lines that reached out to all of the edges of our papers to create the "cozy quilt" around our bodies.  Some students even chose to put a sibling or favorite bedtime stuffed animal snuggled into their quilts.
2.  Next, we filled each space of the quilt with a different pattern.
3. We continued this project the following week by using watercolor palettes to paint each quilt shape.  Students were shown how to glaze with a light color, and then once the area dried, to go back over it with a darker color to create the patterns. 
4. When all the areas were painted and dried, we used black sharpies and gold and silver paint pens to embellish the patterns, add stitching, and sewn on patches. The metallic elements were added to eccentuate Klimt's use of gold leaf.**Make sure paintings are completely dry before using markers and pens, wet paint ruins these expensive tools!

I think these projects turned out fabulous and the students are extremely happy with them.  Many would not give them up to hang in the on-site gallery at the school!

            Adam                                     Camille

          Gaia                                          Heather W.

          Jake                                      Josh

            Yula

          Stephan

     Maggie                                    Miss Vanessa

                   Megan

     Kenna                                     Heather S.

                 Andrew