Classics Class Gets Artsy
By Sharon Ramsey, Middle School Latin Teacher
Part of the Middle School curriculum at Liberty includes the study of classical languages and the cultures that originally used them. In our classics class, seventh graders not only learn a bit of Latin and Greek, but they also discover interesting facts about the ancient Greek and
Roman people. Recently, these students had a chance to put some of their knowledge into action with the annual Greek arts and crafts project.
Much of what we know about ancient cultures has been discovered through the art artifacts of the people who created them. Among other objects, the students viewed fresco paintings from the Minoans on Crete, metalwork and pottery from the Mycenaean culture (of Trojan War fame), and pottery and architecture from Classical Greece. After completing an informational packet on Greek art, they participated in the highlight of the project – Greek Art Days!
Each class was assigned a different craft for the hands-on art projects. The students were required to choose themes that were authentic to the time periods studied. Favorite themes were Greek weaponry, scenes from nature like ocean creatures and flowers, and Christian symbols such as the Chi Rho and ichthys. One class period made mosaics, another worked with clay, and two more painted pottery of different shapes. The final group had the honor of receiving help from one of the Upper School art teachers, Mrs. Mann, who taught them a fresco-making technique. All of the classes were assisted by some great Liberty moms who enjoyed spending time in the classrooms.
This project is a favorite at Liberty and makes the subject come to life!