Materials
PVC pipes in curves, joints, and straight pieces (number purchased depends on the size of the sculpture desired) 2 or 3 old tires several large cardboard boxes paint in several colors large paintbrushes
Instructions
1. Place the pipes, tires, and boxes on the playground. Give the children time to express interest and explore the materials.
2. Show the children how the PVC curves and joints fit together with the straight pieces. Let them experiment with the available materials. Soon the children will begin joining the smaller pieces to form larger structures. Encourage them to work together and cooperate as they share the materials. Do not take charge of the emerging sculpture. Let the children lead the way. Offer encouragement and a steadying hand when needed.
3. At some point, comment to the children that their work looks like a large sculpture (see illlustrations on the following page). Explain that when an artist puts a variety of materials together to create a work of art, it is usually called a sculpture. Encourage the children to continue to work together to make the large sculpture.
4. If the children focus on one set of materials, such as the PVC pipes, point out the other materials and encourage them to use them also. Ask questions such as, "I wonder what would happen if you put the cardboard box over the pipes?" or, "These tires look interesting, I wonder if you can use them anywhere on your sculpture." Again, do not take charge of the construction; simply offer small suggestions and comments.
5. Continue to work with children as they add more and more pieces to their large sculpture. Continue until all the pieces are used or the children feel they are finished.
6. Bring out the paint and brushes. Let the children paint the sculpture as desired. When they are finished and the sculpture is dry, have them gather around the sculpture for a group photo. Invite the parents, other children, and staff to come and see the sculpture.
7. Have fun with the sculpture until the children feel like tearing it apart. Then clean the PVC pipe, get some more cardboard, and begin again.More to doArt: Encourage the children to use straws and clay to create mini sculptures in the classroom.
