Cubism Fun!

Art, Class Work

Exploring Picasso and the World of Cubism

This week in art, Year 4 stepped into the fascinating world of Cubism, inspired by the visionary artist Pablo Picasso. We began by investigating how Picasso challenged traditional perspectives, choosing not to depict subjects from a single viewpoint, but instead deconstructing them into geometric shapes and showing multiple angles all at the same time.

Deconstructing Faces and Angles

The children carefully examined several of Picasso’s most famous portraits, observing how eyes, noses, and mouths could be seen in both profile and side-by-side front views within the very same painting. We discussed key elements of Cubism, including:

  • Geometric Forms: Breaking subjects down into sharp angles, triangles, and intersecting lines.
  • Multiple Perspectives: Merging profile and forward-facing angles into one composition.
  • Fractured Planes: Segmenting space to challenge conventional depth and realism.
  • Expressive Colour: Using bold, contrasting colours to create mood and dynamic energy.

Secret Agents

Class Work, PE

In PE this half term we are doing Gymnastics and Dance. For dance our theme is Secret Agents.

We have focussed on
What is a secret agent? What are their characteristics?

How can I use action and reaction with my group?

How can I interpret and appreciate another group’s dance?

Relationships – When dancers work together, they can make sequences more interesting by using ideas like action and reaction. In this unit, we explore combat, attacking and defending, and how dancers respond to each other’s movements.

Happy Diwali

Class Work, PSHE, RE

The Festival of Lights: Celebrating the Spirit of Diwali

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals across India and throughout the global diaspora. Deriving its name from the Sanskrit word meaning “row of lights,” the celebration symbolizes the profound spiritual triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and wisdom over ignorance.

The Significance and Legends

Celebrated during the Hindu lunisolar month of Kartika, Diwali carries shared themes of renewal, gratitude, and hope. Across various regions, families perform prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of prosperity and auspicious beginnings, inviting peace and abundance into their homes.

The Five Days of Celebration

The festivities typically span five days, each marked by unique customs and rituals:

  • Dhanteras: The welcoming of wealth and auspicious beginnings, traditionally celebrated by purchasing new utensils or gold.
  • Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): Celebrating liberation from negativity and preparing homes with festive decor.
  • Lakshmi Puja: The pinnacle of Diwali, observed with prayers, glowing oil lamps, and joyous family gatherings.
  • Govardhan Puja: Expressing gratitude to nature, community, and sustenance.
  • Bhai Dooj: Honoring the affectionate bond and mutual protection between siblings.

Beloved Traditions and Festivities

Homes are illuminated with rows of clay lamps known as diyas, colorful lanterns, and intricate rangoli patterns crafted on doorsteps using flower petals, colored sand, and rice flour. Neighbors and relatives visit one another to exchange boxes of traditional sweets like laddoos, kaju katli, and jalebis, fostering unity and joy across communities.

A Timeless Message of Unity and Light

At its heart, Diwali is an invitation to look inward, let go of past grievances, and kindle compassion and kindness toward others. As each tiny flame pierces the night sky, it serves as a universal reminder that even the smallest spark of goodness can dispel the deepest shadows.