CHINESE STYLE PAPER FANS

Chinese Style Paper Fans

Learning Targets

I can...

• Create an original Chinese Style Paper Fan using sculpture techniques learned in class
• Use space (positive, negative), line (zig zag, stripes, straight), and texture (implied, actual) inspired by Iron, Bamboo, Paper, Colors, and Lacquer Bequest of Frank D. Stout F1988.40.2.5 (1615-1868) Edo Period
• Use watercolor techniques (splatter, blend, dipping) and design principles (repetition, gradation, balance) based on Functional Art
• Define Concertina Fold (an accordion fold with parallel folding on printed material)

Lesson One
Day One, Art Start

1. Iron, Bamboo, Paper, Colors, and Lacquer. Bequest of Frank D. Stout F1998.40.2.5 (1615-1868) Edo Period
2. Read Ruby's Chinese New Year by Vickie Lee & Joey Chou
3. Discussion Questions "What are some ways you can use a fan (cool off, hide facial expressions, point)? If you were a warrior and your fan was made of hard metal, how could it be useful? What role do the decorations on the fans play? How could the decoration on this fan be helpful to the warriors in a symbolic way? What do you think of when you hear the words "Japanese Art"? What types of art do you believe to be created in Japanese Culture? What would you like to learn most about Japanese Culture?"

Lesson Activities

1. Choose one 15" X 15" Kami Origami Paper 
2. Use a paper cutter to cut the origami paper into a geometric shape (rectangle) for the paper fan style
3. Use decorative side to fold paper inward one third down for the paper fan style

Day Two, Art Start

1. Retrieve Chinese Style Paper Fan for Assigned Table
2. Bronze. The Avery Brundage Collection, B62M37 (1615-1868) Edo Period
3. Discussion Questions "What will the main image be, that will uniquely represent who I am? What colors will I include that are unique to who I am? Will my theme be based on that of Japanese culture and art studied thus far? Is there additional information I will need to include? How will I place all of these components together to create a uniform composition? What are the similarities and differences between these dances and the Chinese Dance you learned today? What kind of instruments can you hear? Can you create a similar sound using instruments you have in school? Can you create instruments using junk from home?"

Lesson Activities

1. Fold paper vertical in half and add a crease in center for the decorative paper fan style
2. Fold right and left edges toward center crease for the decorative paper fan style
3. Cut a handle (string, yarn, cord) to the length of the Chinese Style Paper fan 

Day Three, Art Start

1. Retrieve Chinese Style Paper Fan for Assigned Table
2. Set Up Studio Area (embellishments, glue sticks, yarn)

Lesson Activities

1. Add multiple Chinese Symbols & Calligraphy to the sides of the Chinese Style Paper Fan
2. Use watercolor techniques (splattering, dipping, blending) to fill in the positive (pictures) and negative (handle) of the Chinese Style Paper Fan
3. Add embellishments (sequins, rhinestones, glitter) to the positive (pictures) and negative (handle) of the Chinese Style Paper Fan

Artist Examples

Student Examples