Objective: Use the templates or create your own shape and design a sword guard.
Arts of the Samurai
VPA/VA k.2.2: Demonstrate beginning skill in the use of tools and processes, such as the use of scissors, glue, and paper in creating a three-dimensional construction.
VPA/VA k.2.6: Use geometric shapes/forms (circle, triangle, square) in a work of art.
VPA/VA1.2.3: Demonstrate beginning skill in the manipulation and use of sculptural materials (clay, paper, and paper maché) to create form and texture in works of art.
Sword making is a refined and highly scientific art that is revered in Japan. A sword guard (tsuba) is a metal guard on a samurai sword between the handgrip and the blade. It protects the hand from sliding onto the sharp edge of the blade. Sword guards vary in shape and design and were carved or molded. Use the templates or create your own shape and design a sword guard.
Template copied on cardstock or tag board
Glue
Metal foil
Permanent marker
Scissors
Template: Sword Guard
Instructions: Create Your Own Sword
Activity
In this activity, you will create an art piece inspired by the work of Bernice Bing.
Activity
The imagery on a samurai’s armor expresses that samurai’s identity and source of inspiration or empowerment. Is there an image you connect with most?
Activity
If you were to design a bronze vessel for a friend who has done something important for you, what shape would you make it? How would you decorate it? Would you use designs like the ones on the bronze vessels in the museum? What would you inscribe on it?
Activity
How would you answer Chanel Miller’s “I was, I am, I will be” prompt? Would your answers look like Miller’s, or would they look different?
Activity
Visible from Hyde Street outside the Asian Art Museum are Chanel Miller’s I was, I am, I will be, Jas Charanjiva’s Don’t Mess With Me, and Jenifer K Wofford’s Pattern Recognition.
Activity
Create your own layered collage to preserve your memories of a special place in your life.
Activity
In this activity, you will create your own “space sculpture” out of found objects, light, and shadow.
Activity
Personal Space (2001), a layered, dreamlike painting by Kolkata-based artist Jayashree Chakravarty, is an imaginary map built up from painted strips of paper. In this activity, create your own map based on your special place.
Activity
Make your own torn-paper collages inspired by the images created in the teamLab experience.
Teacher Packet
In this packet, you will engage with Wofford’s mural, learn about different Asian cultures and identities, and celebrate Asian American artists from the San Francisco Bay Area. With what you’ve learned and researched, you will then create your own patterns in a digital collage art project.
