Body Art-Justin and Victoria's Lesson

Another round of great lessons! Today, we were taught by Justin and Victoria. We used our bodies to make large artworks. I thought Victoria had a wonderful teacher presence, clear and gestural. I also thought she was very open, asking us if we understood and if not ok. Aaron used the word "inviting" and I think this is perfect for describing Victoria's attitude toward the class. I felt like if I didn't know something I would feel comfortable asking. Justin also has a wonderful presence and great teacher voice... I just wish he talked more!!!! It seems like they split up the lesson with Victoria doing the Smart Board presentation and Justin doing the demo. They both did a great job at their portion, but I wish there was more of a dynamic distribution throughout.
The activity was a blast! I came into class in the worst mood, and as soon as we got up and started interacting with each other, I started to feel better. Standing in a line, mirroring the person across from us, was a perfect conceptual connection to the lesson. It also allowed for collaboration in a fun way. The art making process was really therapeutic. I know the teacher's suggested using one hand at a time to make our marks, but I jumped right in using both at the same time. I'm right handed, but I found my left hand was the guide, and the right hand followed. This is probably because I read the paper from left to right, like a book. As other students said it was a challenge to use the hand they don't usually use, I found it natural and free to use both.
I enjoyed the tactile element of the work. The feel of the soft chalk and charcoal on my hands, and the smooth drag of my fingers on the paper. It was very zen, Katie compared it to yoga. I agree, I couldn't help but focus on the moment and the marks I was making with my body and the chalk. The contrast of the yellow chalk on the black paper and the black charcoal on the white paper added visual interest as well. It was like yin and yang, and that's the overall feeling I got from this project.
I felt unclear on what we were supposed to have by the end of class, but when I asked Victoria, she told me, one figural image and one abstract. I think it would have been helpful to have this information on the board. Maybe it was, I couldn't really see. Also, preparation. It would have made Justin and Victoria's lives much easier if all the butcher paper was cut ahead of time, and also if sponges were brought in to clean. Altogether, an exciting lesson with great conceptual ties!