Last week the students were on Spring Break. When they left they were working on their Shrine Project. Many of the students have completed more than half of the work for their two shrines.

For this project it seems that most students are designing and creating two similar shrines (two shrines based on the same concept). Only a few students are using two different concepts. This might be happening for a couple of reasons. The first being, this project is more difficult and complex when compared to the first project. Once the students learn how to create the first shrine it is easier to just make a duplicate.

Secondly, the students were asked to think of designing a shrine around someone or thing they wish to “enshrine.” The amount of research and process for one “enshrinement” is detailed—sketches, materials collected, new techniques learned—therefore completing two different shrine concepts became too overwhelming. Completing one great concept, but producing it twice is more attainable. Ms. Burns and I believe this is a workable solution. We continue to remind the students that one shrine will be for the shop, therefore they must make sure elements of the design are more open-ended and not too personal.

June’s Sketch for her necklace

June’s necklace design produced twice. The beads and chain design are slightly different when compared.

June soldering her jump rings on her chain.