Junk Art

November 1, 2012

Gr 2-5-Each colorful offering presents 11 art projects for beginners. Step-by-step explanations are enhanced by photographs of the how-to procedures plus the finished products. A highlighted circle includes all materials needed, and "top tip" paint splashes introduce suggestions for adding unique details to each project. Of the four books, Food Art perhaps offers the greatest potential for projects that encourage individual creativity with "caterpillar sandwiches," "fruit people," "fairy-tale cabins," and marzipan "sweet spiders." Highlights in other books include ideas for sand castles and sand turtles (Sand Art), Bonsai trees and log cabins (Nature Art), and a horse puppet (Junk Art). Each safety-minded book encourages parent permission or adult assistance for more difficult cutting activities. The projects are adequate but a bit mundane (too many picture frames). Additional purchases for most libraries.-Mary Elam, Learning Media Services, Plano ISD, TX

Copyright 2012 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 15, 2012
Grades 3-6 For decades, art teachers have encouraged elementary students to craft unique works of art from items they find in the trash or recycle bin, and this entry in the Awesome Art series helps kids use their imagination to fashion pieces that bear little resemblance to their original forms. Following a brief introduction, each two-page spread presents one of 11 models of crafts and includes a list of materials needed. For the most part, children could create these projects on their own, but by working in a class or group setting, they could share ideas with one another. Although the instructions are amply illustrated with photographs, no dimensions or patterns are provided. For some of the projects, adult interpretation and demonstration will alleviate frustrations, and oversight is necessary for projects requiring knives, glass, tile, etc. The whole series would be a beneficial addition to any library collection that serves art teachers or group leaders.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)