Viewer's Zen Garden

Students with autism learned about the viewer through making a zen garden for small creature. Students had to think about beauty, comfort and design from the perspective of their miniature art-viewers. We considered how our viewer may feel different each day, and therefore may not always see the same design as beautiful. If one were to be scared, they'd probably want to see colors and structures that made them feel safe. If one were excited, they may enjoy more complex and curious surroundings. This project was in constant flux so that the zen garden could be rearranged to reflect the ever-changing aesthetic desired by the viewer.

Colorado State Standard Visual Arts Learning Outcomes:

4th Grade Evidence Outcome 3.2.a- Students can use traditional and contemporary media technologies.

1st Grade Evidence Outcome 3.1.a- Students can use art media and processes to express ideas, feelings, and emotions.

Essential Questions:

Why do artists make art?

What are unique and inventive ways we can use materials?

What materials do you enjoy working with, and why?

Why is intended meaning an issue in the art-making process?