Over the course of this term, Stage 3 boys have been distinguishing the difference between street art and vandalism in order to determine how they can be responsible artists and citizens. The boys observed the art of Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring – two famous New York street artists who were individually renowned for their awareness-raising art.

Each boy was given a plywood skateboard deck, to be transformed into an example of provocative street art. The boys were to ensure that they had elements of style drawn from the artists we studied and were also to choose from a selection of methods in order to realise their skateboard design. These methods included hand painting, painting with sponge rollers and stenciling. The unit has been challenging as the boys have been learning the importance of the design process, rather than focusing on the end product. Street art always has meaning and is there to challenge the viewers or to raise questions, which is what Stage 3 have been uncovering in their art.

To culminate the street art unit, boys will be displaying their skateboards around the school, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled for their fully sick designs!

Phoebe Burnett – Art Teacher

[Show as slideshow]