DEEP SPACE Clay Bells FROM CHINA BY LEXI CONRAD Art Stories FROM AROUND THE WORLD
H I S T O R Y O F Ancient Chinese Bells Bell Set Tomb of Marquis Yi Warring States Period, c. 430 BC Hubei Provincial Museum, Wuhan This bell set from the tomb of Marquis Yi is considered one of the finest artifacts from the Warring States Period. The 65 gold-inlaid, bronze bells cover five octaves and range in size from eight inches high (5 lbs) to five feet high (448 lbs). According to an inscription on the central bell, it was a gift from King Hui of Chu and was cast in 433 The Millenium Bell at Wuhan Yellow Crane Tower is rung with an exterior hammer that makes a deep ringing sound when it hits. Yongzheng Bell, 4th century BCE: Hand made in clay, this clay bell was an inexpensive alternative to the Bronze bells of the royals tombs. D E E P S P A C E S P A R K L E & T H E M E M B E R S C L U B!2
Clay Bells Form & function are connected to this lesson combining basic pinch pot techniques and clay bead making. A bell is a hollow object usually made of metal, but sometimes of horn, wood, glass, or clay, with an interior bead or exterior hammer that makes a deep ringing sound when it's hit or shaken. The history of bells extends back almost to the dawn of civilization, used to ward off evil spirits, to alter the weather, or to mark festive occasions. Bells were originally religious symbols in many ancient cultures, but they were also used to communicate imminent danger. Other kinds of bells include a door bell, a bicycle bell, or a school bell, all of which make a sound to signal something. Using their superior knowledge of pottery, the Chinese created the first "chiming" Making the Bell Start the pinch pot with a ball of clay that fits comfortably in the palm of the hand. Hold the clay in one hand and press the thumb of the other into the ball, turning until a deep hole forms. The sides of the pinch pot can vary but keep a little over 1/4" thickness. While damp, use cutting tools to make a hole in the bottom of the pot. The shape can stay plain or designs can be cut into the edges or sides of the pot. Add texture with the modeling tools at this time. D E E P S P A C E S P A R K L E & T H E M E M B E R S C L U B!3
Making the Bead or Clapper Make small round balls of clay, large enough to put a hole through them with the tool. This tool produces holes of a consistent size that are large enough to accommodate the cord. Finishing Dry 24 hours and fire, then glaze and fire again. Cut a small piece of cord into long strips of varying lengths. Thread the cord through the top bell. Knot the string directly under the hole in the bell to keep it in place. Hang one bead toward the bottom of the lip of the bell so it will strike the bell and make a ringing sound. Add beads as desired to decorate the top of the bell. D E E P S P A C E S P A R K L E & T H E M E M B E R S C L U B!4
Artist Statement Your name HOW DO YOU USE BELLS EVERYDAY? HOW DID YOU CREATE YOUR ARTWORK? (What tools, supplies and techniques did you use? What was difficult?) WHAT WILL YOU USE YOUR CLAY BELL FOR? (Decoration, gift, specific occasion, explain?) D E E P S P A C E S P A R K L E & T H E M E M B E R S C L U B!5
I CAN STATEMENTS for CLAY BELLS Today I will learn of the origins of BELLS and the important roll China played in taking the bell from practical to musical. Today I will learn about FORM, so that I CAN create a three-dimensional bell from clay. I know I will have it when I have rolled and pinched my bell to hold it s shape. Today I will learn how art can be something beautiful but also practical; I will make two beads - one to be decorative for the top of the bell, and one to serve as the clapper so my bell can be rung. Today I will learn about TEXTURE, so that I CAN use texture tools and other materials to create a variety of surfaces on the clay. Today I will learn about COLOR, so that I CAN safely apply GLAZES of planned colors to achieve an interesting design. I will also select a color scheme of my own. I CAN STATEMENTS for CLAY BELLS CREATING: Organize and develop artistic ideas and work experiment and develop skills in multiple techniques through practice show craftsmanship through care document objects of personal significance Refine and complete artistic work create artists statements using art vocabulary to describe personal choices in art-making PRESENTING, PRODUCING: Develop and refine artistic work for presentation develop a logical argument for safe and effective use of materials and techniques for preparing and presenting artwork Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work cite evidence of how an exhibition in a museum presents ideas and provides information about specific concepts RESPONDING: Perceive and analyze artistic work- compare interpretation of art to another s interpretation analyze cultural associations suggested by visual imagery Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work interpret art by analyzing form, structure, context information, subject, visual elements, and use of media to identify mood and ideas conveyed CONNECTING: Synthesize and relate knowledge and personal experiences to make art- Generate a collection of ideas reflecting current interests and concerns that could be investigated in art- making. Relate artistic ideas and works with societal, cultural and historical context to deepen understanding Analyze how art reflects changing times, traditions, resources, and cultural uses. D E E P S P A C E S P A R K L E & T H E M E M B E R S C L U B!6
LEXI is an art teacher in Wuhan, China. She began her love of art at age 9 when her family moved to Japan. Her art class introduced her to wood carving, block painting and ceramics. Now, Lexi inspires a new generation of children to live a creative life by implementing the art programs of her dreams. Lexi s favorite part of being a Sparkler is having a community of support that allows her to find solutions to managing her art room and finding the right words to communicate with parents. Thank you Lexi for sharing your story! We are passionate about teaching art to children no matter where we teach or the challenges we face. Sparklers support, encourage and inspire JOIN OUR GLOBAL COMMUNITY OF ART TEACHERS. Monthly membership offers 2 art bundles each month (that s about 20+ new lessons each month), monthly trainings, access into our private community and a HUGE bank of art resources, posters and teaching videos to access anytime. Are you a Sparkler? CLICK TO LEARN MORE D E E P S P A C E S P A R K L E & T H E M E M B E R S C L U B!7