Arts

Crossing Curriculums: Exploring Sculpture and Ancient History

At the end of this term, students engaged in a unique cross-curricular exploration, combining the creative world of sculpture with the fascinating study of ancient history.

In Humanities, students studied the history of ancient civilizations such as Australia, Egypt, and China. They explored items like the Rosetta stone, the famous Terracotta Warriors, intricate bronze vessels, towering obelisks, and awe-inspiring pyramids. Each student researched their chosen artifact, learning about its origins, purpose, and the civilization that created it. This task encouraged students to develop critical thinking and research skills while immersing themselves in the rich stories of ancient cultures.

Once the research phase was complete, the project transitioned to the art classroom, where students were challenged to recreate their chosen artifacts in three-dimensional form using clay. This hands-on activity allowed students to apply their knowledge of ancient history in a creative context. Whether moulding the delicate features of a Terracotta Warrior or shaping the geometric forms of an ancient bronze vessel, students had the opportunity to engage with history in a tactile and imaginative way.

The final week of the term will see these clay sculptures come to life with paint, as students add colour and detail to their works, aiming to emulate the historical colours, patterns, and finishes of their chosen artifacts.

This project not only provided an opportunity for students to explore history in an interactive way but also encouraged them to blend academic research with hands-on creativity. By crossing the boundaries of art and humanities, students gained a deeper appreciation for the achievements of ancient cultures and how art can preserve history for future generations.

Bronwyn Turnbull

Curriculum Leader