5th and 6th Graders Explore Advocacy Through Art at the National Museum of Women in the Arts
Last week, students of the 5th and 6th grade class took a trip to the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C. The students participated in a guided "See, Think, and Wonder: Art and Advocacy" tour, where they had meaningful discussions around the powerful intersection of art and social messages.
The museum showcase women artists and their contributions to the art world, providing a platform for students to explore how visual art can be used as a medium to advocate for change. Tour guides included student's point of view by asking “What do you see?” Students took turns describing details of bold colors that spoke to them, patterns and photos that seem to tell a story. Thoughtful discussion about the artwork continued the artists’ intentions, and the emotions each piece conveys to viewers. The students were asked to reflect on the artists’ choice of colors, textures, expressions, and imagery to convey their message.
As the tour progressed, the questions deepened: “How do you think the artist felt when creating? What might the artist be advocating for?” Lily L. of the 5th grade class speculated that an oil and collage on canvas (Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, Indian, Indio, Indigenous, 1992) conveyed a message about the mistreatment of Indigenous Peoples'. “The use of red shows anger, like she scribbled while making this”, says Lily.
The highlight of the tour was the “Wonder” phase, where students shared their feelings and interpretations about the artwork. While observing Chakaia Booker, Acid Rain, 2001; rubber tires and wood, students took a moment to take in the artwork and write down what they see, what materials were used, and what the artwork might represent. One student recognized the sharp cuts in the tires, while another noticed the difference in tire size and shape.
After the tour, students participated in a hands-on weaving workshop! They had the opportunity to create their own art. Each student picked yarn to weave patterns and colors. The workshop not only introduced them to a historic art form rooted in storytelling but also encouraged self-expression through color and texture. By the end of the workshop students had a unique piece to take home with them.
For these 5th and 6th graders, the National Museum of Women in the Arts became a space to learn, reflect and create. Through the “See, Think and Wonder: Art and Advocacy” tour, they gained new perspectives on how art can convey powerful messages and inspire. The weaving workshop allowed each student to express their creativity.
Barnesville School
21830 Peach Tree Road
PO Box 404
Barnesville, MD 20838
p: 301.972.0341
PO Box 404
Barnesville, MD 20838
p: 301.972.0341
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