Art for Gorillas

Category: Art of Conservation (AoC) | Date: Jun 30 2009 | By: Julie

Today’s lesson combines foundational art skills followed with more creative expression. Below is a sample of some of the work done by our students during Eric’s lesson in drawing the male and female human figure.

Eric explains to the kids step by step how to draw the human figure in proportion.

A student reaches for additional colored pencils.

Female human figure sample drawings.

Male human figure sample drawings.

Students’ worksheet.

Before class ended, we used the day’s drawing lesson as a way to segway to a discussion about the importance of valuing and protecting one’s own body. Unfortunately, there is a high prevalence of child molestation in Rwanda and so AoC thought it would be valuable to discuss this issue with the students. I do believe we must empower kids by making sure they understand that sexual abuse is wrong and that it is ok to come to authority figures for help. Fortunately, Rwandan kids and parents are now encouraged by the government to report any sexual misconduct committed by elders, teachers, or others.

Tags: art, children, conservation education, rwanda