Respond and Interpret

"Identify and discuss how ideas are expressed in artworks from a range of places, times and cultures, including artworks by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples." (VCAVAR028).

This My Family lesson plan from Japingka Aboriginal Art Online a Perth based Aboriginal Art gallery is an in-depth exploration based on the work of Darwin Aboriginal Artist Sarrita King.

I was drawn to the resource initially as it incorporates a sculptural element and all the other resources listed on this site create 2D artwork, so I wanted to include something 3D.

The resource has been set up with each of the 13 lessons are aligned to the Western Australian and Australian curriculum content descriptors which can also easily be related to the Victorian Curriculum as they are very similar.

Lesson 7 - Ancestors - in particular has strong links to the curriculum with its analysis of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and histories. However, this is also an overlay of the whole project is inspired by the work of Sarrita King whose working utilises the northern territory Aboriginal painting technique of ‘dotting’. This technique that has come to represent for so many Aboriginal artwork is fascinates many students and is definitely something to be explored. However, I would extend discussions around why its ok for us to experiment with the technique it’s a problem if we try and claim our artwork is Aboriginal.

The resource could be used as a term long study as a great example of extended artistic practice around a theme; as a resource it is very accessible and provides all the information needed for anyone teacher regardless of experience to be able to do the work, complete with detailed teacher notes and reflections worksheets for the students to respond to their own and peers finished artworks.