The Teaching Method of Natalie Robinson Cole

Clay Work

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Natalie Robinson Cole feels that sculpting objects in clay is wonderful creative outlet for children.  She suggests that they all start creating the same object:  a cow.  All children should be familiar with what a cow looks like.  However, instead of imitating an adult version of a cow, she insists that they "make it their own way" (p. 29).  

Once the children have sculpted their cows, Robinson Cole goes through and critiques them one by one in front of the class, explaining what seems to be working, what doesn't and which cows have that magic "swing".  Sometimes things that work are merely proportional, such as the head being too big for the body.  Sometimes she feels they don't have enough originality.  As Robinson Cole says "better luck next time" she takes the ones that don't work and puts them back into the clay pile.  Only a couple make the cut for firing.  The children understand what is expected of them the next time they work with clay.  

Painting the clay before firing is a somewhat tedious process.  Robinson Cole helps them understand that by painting many layers of paint, the color will end up bright and not like "dishwater".  She feels that by keeping her standards high, the children will rise to the occasion.  They will also see artmaking as important work and in turn, build confidence within themselves. 


Making What They Like

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After the simple object of a cow has been mastered, children gain confidence in working with clay and Robinson Cole looks to them for ideas on what to make next.  One of her students wants to make a "Holy Mother- La Madre de Guadalupe" (p. 39).  By choosing something the children are naturally interested in, they become completely engrossed and engaged in sculpting their forms. Children collaborate with each other while they talk about what they are making.  The religious sculptures are relevant to them and their culture.