Interpreting the Revolutionary War Through the Lens of Jasper Johns' "Flags"

Two of Johns' Flags

Jasper Johns is a well-regarded American artist from the mid twentieth-century. His work typically dealt with the reimagining of standard symbols- numbers, targets, letters. His "American Flag" series was incredibly evocative of the layering of social and political conversation during the period that he worked during. Issues such as war and equity were at the fore, and his work with the symbol of the American Flag became a nuanced vision of those issues.

As the Fifth Grade students study the American Revolutionary War, there is an opportunity to reflect on that period of our country's history. The struggle for independence, the hope for security, the longing for self-governance all must be thought of as the defining ideas of our country's birth. And as all great social changes are accompanied by tremendous art, I have tasked our students to use technical skill (tape striping, resist painting, three-dimensional craftwork) to create interpretive representations of some aspect of the Revolutionary War or period.

The process is simple and freeing. First, I uncovered what students know about the Revolutionary war period. Then, we learned about Jasper Johns and his "flag" series. Guidelines were given and brainstorming ensued. Sketchbooks were opened and every student produced a plan for a project that was approved by me for further development. Production has now begun and the art pieces are tantalizing and insightful.

This is the type of project that allows for a wide range of final products. Some paintings will be great successes in their outcomes, some sculptures will reach their goals. Others will be a bit less than what the initial vision dreamed. These are all learning experiences of value. In the end, it is the act of synthesizing information, applying it to a new integrative schema, and problem-solving with a coach by your side that creates deep learning. I am proud to coach our young artists forward.

Initial planning sheet:
_________________________________________________________________________________

Jasper Johns inspired Flag Art

A response to The American Revolutionary War 

Name:___________________________

First, Let’s learn about Jasper Johns’ Flag paintings together and talk about his choices.

Requirements:

1. The flag must be a large­ scale organizing symbol in your work

2. Colors must be consistent with the patterning of the flag, though variations on reds and blues are encouraged

3. Text which evokes or makes the viewer think about something in the Revolutionary War must be legible in your work.

4. Any medium is valid, though our timeframe and resources will affect your allowable choices

What are some ideas you have for your work?