Connecting Cultures: Ancient Art in the Classroom

Students at Hynes UNO explored various ancient cultures through hands-on visual art projects, enhancing their learning beyond traditional textbook methods. These art projects allowed students to connect more deeply with the material, engaging both textile and visual learners in meaningful ways.

One notable project involved studying symbolism in ancient cultures. Students designed meaningful symbols and carved their own "rock carvings" in clay, adding contemporary paint colors to bring their art to life. This process helped students form a deeper understanding of ancient symbolism, imagery, and materials by engaging them in the tactile and creative act of making art.

Another project focused on Greek vases, where students learned about vase shapes, patterns, Greek myths, and storytelling. By designing their own vases with unique patterns and mythological creatures, students connected with the material about ancient Greece on a personal level. This experience helped them better understand the meanings behind the imagery in Greek vases and their cultural significance.

The hands-on, mixed-media approach to learning immediately engages students, offering a new perspective on Social Studies. Arts-integrated projects like these enhance vocabulary, improve recall and retention, and build confidence in students' knowledge of both Social Studies and art. Working with clay and paints creates lasting memories and fosters a deeper connection to the material