How to Make Wire Animal Sculptures
Wire animal sculptures are a fun way to teach young children about contour and shape. The most famous artist working in this medium was Alexander Calder (1898 - 1976). In 1926, he created a miniature circus. The "performers" were sculptures made from wire, leather and other found materials. He displayed his circus in many European cities for several years.
This project is designed for students grades 4 to 5. It details how to prepare, create and display an animal wire sculpture.
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Things You'll Need
- White paper, 8 1/2 inches by 11 inches
- Pencil, 2B
- Copper wire, 20 gauge
- Needle nose pliers
- Wire clipper
- Shoe box
- Construction paper, black
- Scissors
- Glue
- Toothpick
- Fishing line
Instructions
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1
Draw an animal face. The pencil must stay in contact with the paper at all times. When you are drawing the face, avoid unnecessary details: eyelashes, for example. The drawing serves as your sculpture's template.
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2
Cut the copper wire to a length of 30 inches. Place the wire on top of the drawing. Shape it so that the wire covers the pencil lines. Use the needle nose pliers for very tight turns and points. Make sure that ends overlap 1/2 inch when you are done. Twist the ends together with the needle nose pliers.
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3
Line the inside of the shoebox with black construction paper. Pierce one of the box's short sides with the toothpick. Tie a 5 inch length of fishing line around the center of the toothpick. Drop the fishing line through the shoebox, so that the toothpick rests on top of it. Hang the wire sculpture from the other end.
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Tips & Warnings
Lining the outside of the shoebox with white or neutral colored construction paper will give the sculpture a more finished look.
Working with copper wire and wire clippers requires close adult supervision.
References
- Photo Credit cat on the bench image by Travelfish from Fotolia.com
