THEME: DESIGN
SUBJECT: VISUAL ART
ARTIST: VANESSA SICA + CHRIS KASABACH / ALLAN WEXLER
GRADE: recommended 6th-12th grade
 
OBJECTIVES
Students begin to consider aesthetic value and functionality and how these intersect.
Students look closely at artwork that has an element of design.
Students think about the objects around them and how they have elements of function and design.
 
KEY QUESTIONS
1. What are some objects you use every day that serve a purpose?
2. What does it mean to be functional?
3. Is all art functional? 
4. How does the function of an object impact the design? How does the design impact the function?
5. Do you think about the design of objects around you?
6. Do you think about how the space around you is designed? What would you change? 
 
VISUAL REFERENCES
1. Bed Sitting Rooms for an Artist in Residence, (1988) by Allan Wexler
2. Unbrella, (2009) by Vanessa Sica and Chris Kasabach
 
ACTIVITY
Students think about a room or object they would like to re-design. The room and object should serve more than one function and have creative solutions. Function is just as important as design. Students can create a small model or a series of drawings to display their idea. Have students share with the class their new designs and have a discussion about the design elements and what works in each project. 

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PENNSYLVANIA CORE STANDARDS
VISUAL ARTS
(9.1.6.A-9.1.12.A)
-know and use the elements and principles of each art form to create works in the arts and humanities
 
(9.1.6.B-9.1.12.B)
-recognize, know, use and demonstrate a variety of appropriate arts elements and principles to produce, review and revise original works in the arts
 
(9.1.6.C-9.1.12.C)
-recognize and use fundamental vocabulary within each of the arts forms
 
(9.1.6.D-9.1.12.D)
-use knowledge of varied styles within each art form through a performance or exhibition of unique work
 
(9.1.6.E-9.1.12.E)
-demonstrate the ability to define objects, express emotions, illustrate an action or relate an experience through creation of works in the arts