Day 12, Wednesday June 19, Earth, Fire, Wind & Water

Today we had fun experimenting with the four natural elements -earth, fire, wind and water.  We learned about the physical properties of the pigments (natural, natural synthetic, synthetic EARTH materials) that we were using to paint our frescos.  By applying heat (FIRE) to Sienna Yellow the properties actually change and you can heat it to the desired value of orange.  This process was really neat!  While preparing our fresco base, we used our previously learned knowledge from yesterday to mix and layer our mortar and lime onto the tiles.  We also prepared our drawings and made a cartoon (outline drawing with pin holes so we can brush the dry pigments on).  We experienced the effects of mortar when it is too wet to "work on", and waiting for the tile to absorb some of the water and the WIND to help it dry. When finished, we took a ride with the windows down.  The WIND was refreshing!  Halfway through the ride we stopped by the laundry mat to wash our clothes in WATER!  Okay this one is a stretch but we really did have an awesome day learning about how art is so scientific and it is amazing!  GO ART!!!!!