LOOK! THERE’S A UNICORN

“The title is Once Upon a Time in the Future… So she’s the mascot for that.”

– Calder Kamin

LESSON OVERVIEW

In this lesson, students are introduced to artist Calder Kamin, who infuses her artistic practice with playfulness. Calder Kamin creates large sculptures from recycled materials that often feature mythical creatures. Students will view a segment on Craft in America that shows the artist constructing an imaginative unicorn that is placed in a woodland setting where trail visitors will come upon it. After viewing the video and engaging in discussion, students will plan imaginative creatures using ideas of hybrids as a theme. Students will review why the artist uses recycled materials in her work. Then students will play and experiment with recycled materials to further visualize features for their creatures. Finally, students will consider presenting a surprise in the manner of display of their artworks in school.

Estimated Time: four to six 45-minute class periods

Grade Level: K–4

Craft In America Theme/Episode: PLAY

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