Sheila Hicks: Paper Weaving

IDEAS DESIGN CHALLENGE
Inspired by Sheila Hicks: Campo Abierto (Open Field)

* Tip: Read this whole lesson plan before you get started so you can see how the plan will evolve.

Lesson Duration: 1 hour

MATERIALS

2-3 pieces of colored construction paper
Scissors
Markers or crayons

Vocabulary: horizontal, vertical

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

Watch the following video about Sheila Hicks’ exhibition at The Bass and her use of materials.

DIRECTIONS

STEP 1
Take a colorful piece of paper and hold it horizontally. Fold in the middle. Cut at the fold, downward halfway, about one inch apart, making 5 cuts along the folded edge.

Tip: Be sure not to cut all the way to the edge and leave about 1 inch of space at the border of your paper!

STEP 2
Take your second piece of construction paper and draw a design! After, hold it vertically. Cut strips of paper from top to bottom about 1 inch thick.

STEP 3
Set the first sheet of construction paper (the one with 5 cuts) and place flat and horizontally on your table.

STEP 4
Grab one strip of paper and weave it through from left to right, or right to left. Think over, under, over under.

STEP 5
Take your second strip, and reverse the weave, now thread your strip of paper UNDER, over, under, over.

STEP 6
Repeat the process until you are finished with your strips.

Did you know?: Artist, Sheila Hicks creates ‘mini looms’ in place of a sketchbook! To make your own ‘mini loom’ try this project suited for ages 10 and up.

You did it! Share your artwork with us by taking a picture of your creation and tagging @BassCreativityCenter and #BassCreativityCenter.

LEARNING BENEFITS
Stringing activities help young learners develop manual dexterity and manipulative skills. By using their hands, children more fully integrate learning experiences. Weaving, sewing and other kinds of handwork extend the benefits of practical life work for the older child.

ADAPTATION FOR YOUNGER ARTISTS
Use larger pieces of paper, rather than 5 cuts to the construction paper, try 3. This is a great opportunity to practice cutting in a straight line.

ADAPTATION FOR OLDER ARTISTS
Use smaller cut paper with more strips, rather than 5, try 10!

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Learn more about Sheila Hicks’ exhibition Campo Abierto (Open Field)
Complete more activities like this inspired by Sheila Hicks
Visit Sheila Hicks’ website

Be sure to share your artwork by taking a picture of your project and tagging @BassCreativityCenter and #BassCreativityCenter.

SHARE!

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