In her work Frankenstein, Mary Shelley wrote of the fusion of art and science, “in other studies you go as far as others have gone before you, and there is nothing more to know; but in this pursuit there is continual food for discovery and wonder.” Students in the 4th, 5th, and 6th grade art classes have delved deep into the aesthetics of form and structure as they have designed, constructed, and innovated their own robots.

“I tasked them to create a robot,” said lower school art teacher Kathie Johnson, “and the results are remarkably creative.” In preparation for the third annual Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra partnership event, Johnson inspired students to design their own robotic creatures. Fifth graders worked in two dimensions and 4th graders collaborated for three dimensional structures. Shown left, Johnson is modeling the interactive “birthday bot.”

“Can you imagine our own MVS mini-bus loaded with life-sized robotic creatures pulling up in front of the Schuster,” said middle school art teacher Rob Gartzka. Gartzka’s 6th grade students used solid construction materials including plastics, wiring, wood, metal, and hardware to realize large creations thematically decorated. Themes range from formal wear to law enforcement to ice cream distribution, each unique in size, shape, and appearance.

“Friend, good,” said Shelley’s creature. All the new, diverse robot “friends” will be on display for four hours only in the Wintergarden Promenade of the Schuster Center and as part of the post-concert reception, sponsored by the MVS Alumni Council. Make plans to attend the October 27 PhilharMONSTER family concert at the Schuster Center to experience an intermediate grade interpretation of “robot friend” in uniquely inspired creatures.

The following photos are a sampling of the Fifth Grade Robotic Art Photo Album. Please visit our Facebook page for a full slide collection, including “teasers” from the 6th grade work.

                     

Click here for the full album and to “Like“ your favorites!