Art Machines: Kinetic Creature Invention Kits

Programs > Art Machines: Kinetic Creature Invention Kits

Art Machines: Kinetic Creature Invention Kits

Artist

Program Type

Description

Design and build a kinetic sculpture using a system of simple machines. Bring a creature or contraption with moving parts—a mouth that opens and closes, hands that clap, wings that flap—to life!

This workshop is based on the Art Machines Snack from Arts for Learning and FutureMakers, a hands-on playful engineering project for classrooms. Each student receives a personal package of unique cardboard components to engineer a unique kinetic creature that belongs to them.

STEAM concepts included:

Engineering design process
Prototyping and inventing
Simple vs. compound machines using levers and fulcra
Forces and interactions: push and pull motions

ELA connections:

Character traits
Story development
Simple dialogue

Core Arts Skills Built:

Self-motivation: persevere when trying new skills and taking risks
Develop Craft: practice combining materials to make new objects

Student Materials Kits include:

Die-cut cardboard levers
Colorful fasteners
Adhesive foam and tag board components

Audience Limit 25 students per classroom

Program Length 45 min - 1 hr, one class session

Technical Requirements

Art Machines are delivered to your school in pre-packaged sets of kits for 10 learners.
Once the project is scheduled, a synchronous virtual planning session is scheduled for participating staff. Staff then receive access to all educator resources, including pre-project how-to video for educators, classrooms slides, and one-page quick start guide.
Slide decks are available in English and Spanish.
Classrooms will need to provide scissors and drawing materials for this project.

Pricing

Workshop Materials Fee:: Materials fee may apply.
Travel Fee:: Mileage fee may apply.

Testimonials

“I was looking for ways to make learning tangible in my classroom. I wanted a transdisciplinary project that would engage my students and plug into my existing curriculum without replacing it. FutureMakers met all of these expectations and more.”
—Andria, Teacher, Harford County Public Schools

“Great hands-on STEAM project. It got everyone involved!”
—Emma K. Doub Elementary

"We loved this residency! The students were so engaged and they really became problem solvers during our experience. Coach Matt did a fantastic job teaching the content. We can't wait to participate again next year!"
—Emma K. Doub Elementary