Skull Sketch 2: A Lesson in Symmetry and Cultural Significance

In our recent art lesson, students learned the traditional Mexican craft of creating sugar skull line drawings, also known as 'Alfeñiques.' This festive activity not only allowed children to express their creativity but also introduced them to the rich cultural heritage of Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.

To begin, we set up a table with various materials, including scissors, glue, and Mod Podge. The kids cut out sugar skulls from white paper and glued them onto 11' x 14' sheets of black paper. Then, they added colorful flowers around the skull, making sure to follow the theme of Marigolds, which are an integral part of this holiday.

As students worked on their designs, some chose to leave their skulls white while others colored the entire skull. This activity not only taught them about symmetry and line patterns but also allowed them to express themselves creatively.

To help students create sharp lines, we sat down with them and demonstrated how to connect lines and avoid leaving them hanging. We also encouraged them to mix and match photocopies of different skulls to add their own personal touches.

One innovative technique we used was tracing the skull lines onto a sunny window. This allowed students to see their designs more clearly and make any necessary adjustments before finalizing their work.

The resulting sugar skull line drawings were truly impressive, despite a few minor mishaps (no ink spills!). The kids loved getting out of their chairs and moving around while adding decorations to their skulls.

This lesson not only taught our students about the cultural significance of Dia de los Muertos but also introduced them to new artistic techniques and materials. As we celebrate this vibrant holiday in Santa Barbara, we're grateful for the opportunity to share its beauty with our students.

Skull sketch 2