Shadow Creatures – Art Sparks

Designer: Tabitha Lusk

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Instructions

Celebrate the mystery of fall with ceramic creatures inspired by bats, moths, butterflies, and owls. Students use simple slab-building techniques to create dimensional wall hangings that explore silhouette, texture, pattern, and negative space. The finished pieces can stand alone or come together as a seasonal display. 

Great For 

  • Creating eye-catching fall displays 
  • Exploring symmetry, texture, and negative space 
  • Connecting art with nature, folklore, and storytelling 

Simple Directions 

  • Gather inspiration from insects, nocturnal animals, mythology, or imaginary creatures. 
  • Create a dimensional wall hanging using simple slab-built forms and textured surfaces. 
  • Glaze and display individually or combine pieces into a collaborative installation. 

Expandable Ideas 

  • (Grades 3-12) Elementary students can create colorful creatures while older students explore mood, symbolism, and layered glaze effects. 

Supplies

Form 

  • Clay body of choice

Colors

  • Jungle Gems for the magical crystal effects that can make wings, feathers, and surfaces feel mysterious 
  • Elements for rich color and moody blends 
  • Stroke & Coat for bold patterns, details, and bright accents 

Decorating Accessories

  • CB604 #4 Soft Fan 
  • CB406 #6 Pointed Round 
  • CB202 #2 Detail Liner 

Miscellaneous Accessories

  • Sketch paper and pencils 
  • Wooden modeling tools 
  • Slip and scoring tools 
  • Textured stamps or found objects
  • Sponges and water bowls 
  • Wire or pipe cleaners for wild hair or arms (added post-fire)
  • Beads or gems embedded before firing or glued after
  • Acrylic paint or metallic wax (for highlights after glaze firing)
  • Designer Liner for outlining features or drawing mood symbols or words
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