Excerpt
"MUDWORKS" is a book of open-ended clay, dough, and other modeling mediums
and art experiences. There is no right or wrong way for projects to turn out.
Exploration and experimentation in sculpture, design, and play are encouraged
for all ages.After children have explored and repeatedly experienced the modeling
qualities of doughs and clays, they will begin to refine their work and skills
automatically and independently.
Young children may assist in preparation of doughs and clays with supervision.
Older children will work more independently. The decision as to how much each
child can handle safely and successfully is yours along with the child's.
Once modeling mixtures are prepared, freedom in exploration and
experimentation will be encouraged and enjoyed. Adult models to copy are not
necessary. But this is not to say adults should not join in and enjoy the art
experiences too! Free-form designs, as opposed to perfect "cookie-cutter"
products, are the goal of the projects in "MUDWORKS".
The creative modeling experiences in this book were developed and compiled
for independent expression by children of all ages. Each recipe and activity
needs no adult model to copy; children simply explore and create from the
materials at hand. The outcome of each experience is bounded only by the
child's imagination. Some projects will be lovely to look at, some lovely to taste,
and others lovely to have explored and nothing more. Children will need only to
please themselves.
Explore. Experiment. Create. Enjoy watching the creative sparkle of each child.