AT H O M E W I T H M O N TA LV O
gratitude mobile
In this step-by-step guide, we will… create a modern display of a gratitude tree using the concept of a mobile, a suspending sculptural form.
gratitude mobile
A gratitude tree is an impactful opportunity to share and reflect who and what you are thankful for. The practice of gratitude evokes a positive and meaningful emotion and appreciation of all that is within and around us.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• understanding the reflection and practice of gratitude • creating a mobile using mixed media materials and demonstrate knowledge of balance and movement in sculpture TIME
thirty minutes to one hour DIFFICULTY LEVEL
easy to medium AGE LEVEL
all ages
STEP 1
supplies
For this activity, you need: • tree branch (any size) • colored pencils or markers • any choice of paper: cardstock, printer • yarn • scissors
STEP 2
cut, loop, and tie
measure and cut out enough yarn and make a double knot at one end of the branch. loop the yarn all the way to the other end of the branch and make a double knot to secure it.
STEP 3
draw out leaves
taking your choice of paper, create outline shapes of various types of leaves.
STEP 4
color and decorate
using your choice of colored pencils or markers, color and decorate your leaves with autumn colors and details.
STEP 5
cut out
using your scissors, cut out your leaves.
STEP 6
color and decorate
after cutting, color and decorate the back of your leaves.
STEP 7
gratitude moments
using a permanent or black marker, begin to write out your choice of gratitudes and decorate each leaf.
STEP 8
arrange leaves
experiment with different compositional arrangements for your display.
STEP 9
cut holes
using an x-acto knife, push pin, or scissors, cut out a hole at the end of each leaf.
STEP 10
measure, wrap, tie
measure out 10-15 inches of yarn and insert in the hole of the leaf. wrap around the end of the branch and securely double knot it.
STEP 11
measure, wrap, tie
follow the same process for the remaining leaves. consider different height levels for the mobile.
STEP 12
cut off edges
cut off any remaining edges of the yarn.
STEP 13
complete mobile
measure out enough yarn and double knot the ends to create a balancing hanger.
STEP 14
final result
we hope you enjoyed this art project at home! show us what you made by emailing learn@montalvoarts.org or tagging us at @montalvoarts on Facebook or Instagram.