Our last Family Day, in October, celebrated International Archaeology Day and explored ancient Greek and Chinese ceramics.
In ancient China, people were buried with special objects called mingqi (MING-chee). These clay figures were made to serve and protect people in the afterlife. Animals were popular and each one had special powers. For example, an owl helped guide people from one world to the next. A chimera (ky-MARE-uh), a magical, fire-breathing beast, protected the dead from evil spirits.
If you designed your own animal jar, would it show your favorite animal or a new, magical creature? What powers would it have?
Now it’s your turn to create a clay animal.
You will need the following supplies:
- air-dry clay
- water
- toothpick
- decorative materials like gems, markers, paint, etc.
Directions:
- Cover your work surface for easy clean-up.
- Pick your animal: a dog, a bird or something magical.
- Make balls, snakes or flat pieces to form the body.
- Press the parts together. Use a little water to help pieces stick if needed.
- Add details by using a toothpick or your fingers to make eyes, ears, scales or fur.
- Leave your animal in a safe spot for 24 to 48 hours until it’s completely dry.
- Once it is dry, you can paint your animal or add other decorations.
Our next Family Day is Saturday, November 8.
Come have fun with us!