Made a candle jar with pressed flowers

Art

• The student learned about color combinations and the visual impact of layering pressed flowers.
• They gained an understanding of design principles such as balance and composition while arranging the pressed flowers in the candle jar.
• The activity provided the opportunity to explore different textures and materials in creating an aesthetically pleasing piece of art.

History

• The student learned about the cultural significance of pressed flowers in different historical periods, especially during the Victorian era when it was popular for decorative purposes.
• They gained insights into the ways in which people utilized natural materials for art and decoration throughout history.
• The activity fostered an appreciation for the tradition of preserving and displaying natural beauty, which has historical roots in various cultures.

For continued development, the student can experiment with different types of flowers and foliage, exploring how varying plant materials affect the overall appearance of the candle jar. They can also research the historical use of pressed flowers in different cultures and time periods, using this knowledge to inspire their future art projects.

Book Recommendations

• Flowerpaedia: 1000 Flowers and Their Meanings by Cheralyn Darcey: A beautifully illustrated book exploring the symbolic meanings of flowers, providing inspiration for creating floral art.
• The Art Lesson by Tomie dePaola: A heartwarming story of a young artist finding his own unique style, conveying the importance of creativity and self-expression.
• Extra Yarn by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen: A delightful tale about the transformative power of creativity and the joy of creating something beautiful out of simple materials.