Art: Garden games

• 5 Stars

A classroom-sculpture project offers children opportunities to experiment with an exciting range of processes and materials. But there’s one problem with sculptures. Once they’re finished, what do you actually do with them? Desk space is limited and hanging anything heavy from the ceiling could mean broken sculptures (and bruised heads) – so why not experiment with displaying 3D work outside of the classroom environment?

In this article, you’ll find some ideas for projects that can be displayed, and even played with, in outdoor-learning areas. A colourful textiles activity is guaranteed to enliven even the dullest corner of the playground, while a collection of sturdy skittle sculptures will withstand the attention of the liveliest of classes. Experiment with these ideas and children will soon enjoy taking their sculptures into the great outdoors.

1. Skittle sculptures

You will need:

• Plastic bottles (various sizes)
• Sand
• Newspaper
• Card tubes
• Masking tape
• Paste for papier mâché
• Tissue paper or paint
• PVA glue
• Images of the children or celebrities.