Polyurethane expanding foam is useful in art. We can usually make big sculptures with low weight. Empanding foam can be sculpted after drying or casted by injecting it in a silicone mold.create a lesson in sculpture using expansion foam and plaster bandages to seal. Carving can also be used to shape your design. Students must design their sculptures and research artists who work in a similiar way. Artists like Henri Moore. Think about the elements of art / Lesson Plan

Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will create a unique sculpture using polyurethane expanding foam and plaster bandages. They will learn how to design, sculpt, and carve their piece while exploring the work of relevant artists like Henry Moore. The student will also gain an understanding of the elements of art and how they apply to three-dimensional works.

Materials and Prep

• Polyurethane expanding foam
• Plaster bandages
• Protective gloves and goggles
• Plastic sheeting or drop cloths to protect work surfaces
• Sculpting tools (e.g., knives, spatulas, carving tools)
• Sketchbook and pencils for design
• Reference images of sculptures by Henry Moore and other relevant artists

Before starting the lesson, ensure that the workspace is well-ventilated and that protective gear is worn. Familiarize yourself with the properties of expanding foam and how it reacts once applied.

Activities

• Research and Inspiration: Spend time looking at the works of Henry Moore and other sculptors who use similar materials. Note their styles, shapes, and use of space.

In this activity, the student will explore various artists and their techniques. They should take notes on how these artists use form and space in their works, which can inspire their own sculpture design.

• Design Your Sculpture: Create sketches of your sculpture ideas in your sketchbook. Focus on the elements of art such as shape, form, and balance.

The student will develop multiple sketches, considering how they can manipulate the expanding foam to create their desired shapes. They should think about how their design will look from different angles.

• Creating the Sculpture: Use polyurethane expanding foam to build the base of the sculpture. Allow it to dry as per the instructions.

In this hands-on activity, the student will apply the expanding foam to create the structure of their sculpture. They should be mindful of the foam's expansion and how it will affect their design.

• Sealing with Plaster Bandages: Once the foam has dried, use plaster bandages to seal and add texture to the sculpture.

This activity allows the student to enhance their sculpture's surface and add details. They will learn how to apply plaster bandages effectively and create interesting textures.

• Carving and Finishing Touches: After the plaster has set, carve and refine the sculpture to achieve the desired look.

In the final activity, the student will use sculpting tools to carve and refine their sculpture. They can add details and smooth out surfaces to make their piece stand out.

Talking Points

• "What do you notice about the shapes and forms in Henry Moore's sculptures?"
• "How does the use of expanding foam allow us to create large sculptures with less weight?"
• "Think about the balance and proportion in your design. How will these elements affect the overall look?"
• "Why is it important to consider the texture when working with materials like plaster bandages?"
• "How can you use carving to enhance your sculpture's features?"
• "What challenges do you think you might face when working with expanding foam?"
• "How does your sculpture reflect your personal style or message?"
• "What did you learn about the properties of the materials we're using today?"
• "How can you apply the elements of art to create a more dynamic sculpture?"
• "What are some ways that artists use negative space in their sculptures?"
• "How does this project help you understand the role of materials in sculpture?"
• "What steps will you take to ensure safety while working with expanding foam and plaster?"
• "Why do you think artists choose to work with unconventional materials?"
• "How can you critique your work and make improvements as you go?"
• "What emotions do you want your sculpture to convey?"
• "How does your sculpture compare to the works of the artists you researched?"