Plaster lends itself to sculpture easily.
Working with plaster is an art technique that can be taught to students of all ages, from kindergarten children through adults. Plaster is a unique art media that can be carved, cast and molded to make all kinds of art projects. Choose plaster art projects that are appropriate for the age group of students you're working with, and allow adequate time for preparing the plaster beforehand and letting it harden after the project.
Plaster Face Masks
One of the most common plaster art projects that can be done by kids of all ages is the plaster face mask. Prepare plaster gauze strips and warm water, then cover students' faces with a light coating of Vaseline. Wet each plaster strip in warm water, squeeze off excess moisture, then cover the face with the plaster strips, being sure to leave space around the nostrils for breathing. Allow the plaster to harden for 5 to 10 minutes, then remove it.
Plaster Hand Print Molds
Another classic plaster art project, this activity creates a lasting memory for parents of their child's hand print at a certain age. Mix up a batch of plaster of Paris and pour it into a disposable container, such as an aluminum pie plate. Have the child make a hand print in the center of the plaster of Paris mold, and allow the plaster 24 hours to dry completely. Remove it by turning the container upside down and letting the cast slide out.
Carving Plaster
Students can experiment with creating their own carved sculptures with this easy plaster art project. Prepare a mix of plaster of Paris, water and vermiculite, which can be found at garden stores. Pour the finished mix into a plastic cup and allow it to harden overnight. Remove it from the cups, and provide students with plastic knives to carve the plaster blocks. Keep sculptures moist until students are finished carving, then allow the carvings to dry out over the course of several days.
Plaster Bird
This art project uses a balloon as a mold for creating a silly looking animal friend. Blow up a balloon, and cover it with plaster strips dipped in warm water. Allow it to dry for 30 minutes, then pop the balloon with a pin. Use leftover plaster strips to mold a beak, eyes, wings and feet. Allow the plaster 1 to 2 hours to dry, then paint it with colorful acrylic paints. Decorate the piece by gluing on feathers and other craft embellishments.
