This primary art lesson plan is all about making and personalising dream catchers then writing about and painting the dreams they might ensnare…
Although there are times when we wish our pupils were tuned in to teaching rather than following their fantasies, dreams have long been a wonderful source of inspiration for artists.
Many memorable artworks – Salvador Dali’s surrealist landscapes, for example, or René Magritte’s mysterious portraits – feature images half-remembered from dreams.
Art lessons can offer opportunities for children to explore the parts of their minds that other subjects cannot reach.
This lesson plan takes inspiration not only from the dreamlike paintings of Marc Chagall but also from Native American craft work.
Experiment with one or two of the ideas on these pages and, who knows, your children might experience the lesson of their dreams.
Learning objectives
- Draw inspiration from artists’ explorations of dreams and fantasies
- Make decisions about the design of artworks and artefacts
- Develop techniques for weaving and construction
Starter activity
Begin by showing the class a selection of images of dream catchers – magical structures traditionally made by Native Americans from willow and decorated with beads and feathers.
At the centre of the dream catcher’s web-like design is a single bead representing the dream. When hung above a bed the dream catcher is believed to protect those sleeping beneath.
Children should understand that there are key features – the structure, the web, the beads – they will need to emulate when making their dream catcher in order that it retains its magical qualities.
They will also, however, be quick to appreciate that their own designs should be unique to them.
Before children begin making their own dream catchers, allow time for them to create some initial designs on paper.
Encourage children to think carefully about the materials and objects that they intend to add to their dream catcher.
You might consider setting this as a homework task for children a day or two before the lesson, as it will offer them the opportunity to bring to school one or two personal items that will make their work distinctive.
Robert Watts is the Programme Convener for the MA Art, Craft and Design Education course at the University of Roehampton, London, and the co-author of Teaching Art and Design 3-11, published by Continuum Books. Browse more KS2 art ideas.
