Redo, Reuse, Retread: A Lesson in Recycling Old Shoes

Lesson Plan, Grades K-12, Art, Math, History, Science, 3-D, Crafts

Description

Lesson Plan and Artwork by Joe Culotta

The process of using found objects and materials to recycle has always been part of the objectives in Art Education. This lesson plan utilizes recycled old shoes to demonstrate the unique ways artists can take every day objects and turn them into Object 'D Arts.

Objectives

Students will learn that everyday discarded objects can be turned into works of art.

Students will study the history and design of shoes.

Students will choose a type and style of shoe to transform. These completed Object D'Arts will be displayed or even worn if the artist so chooses.

Supplies Needed

Creativity Street® Sequins & Spangles Shaker Jar, Assorted Sizes, 8 4/5 oz.
Creativity Street® Colossal Barrel of Crafts, Assorted Colors
Creativity Street® Washable Glitter Glue, Assorted Metallic Colors, 8 oz. bottle, Pack of 8
Creativity Street® Glue Stick Set, Assorted Glitter Colors, 10 cc tubes, Set of 6
Creativity Street® Glitter Glue Pens, 10 cc tube, Set of 72
Creativity Street® Washable Glitter Chip Glue, Assorted Colors, 8 oz. bottle, Pack of 8
Creativity Street® Washable Glitter Glue, Assorted Colors, 4 oz. bottle, Pack of 12
*Here are the supplies needed for this lesson plan for reference. Find a convenient carousel of shoppable products for this lesson below.

Standards

Standard #2: Organize and develop artistic ideas in work.
Standard #3: Refine and complete artistic work.
Standard #5: Develop and refine artistic work for presentation

Instructions

1

Share with students the history of shoes. Show examples or photos of shoes and discuss how history, fashion and lifestyles have influenced shoe design and what we wear on a daily basis.

2

Students will begin gathering old shoes (from spikes to sneakers) from thrift shops or even their own closets. A "theme" or design direction will be developed once the right shoe or shoes are found.

3

Have students sketch their design ideas to help determine how to best utilize art materials such as sequins and spangles, glitter, feathers, wiggle eyes, pony beads, glitter glue pens, and cording to decorate the shoe. The sketch process will also help students determine if additional construction is needed to the shoe to transform it into an Object 'D Arts.

4

Thoroughly clean the shoe prior to applying any art materials.

5

If the student decides to change or enhance the shoe's shape, other recycled materials can be used for this purpose.

6

Have students select the Creativity Street® art materials for use on their shoes.

7

When the shoe is ready for the application of art materials, have students work from the inside of the shoe out. Allowing time for each layer of art materials to dry.