Our idea for calendars this year, is based around The Northern Lights.
Since the beginning of time, people have told stories and legends to explain natural, but mysterious occurrences. The Northern Lights is one example. The Vikings thought the Northern Lights were caused by the shining weaponry of immortal warriors. The Alaskan Inuit people believed the lights were the souls of salmon, deer and other animals. The Menominee Indians thought the lights were the torches of giants living in the North.
Following a session finding out the facts, we set to work on designs for our calendars. I was amazed how much the children understood about the phenomenon of The Northern Lights.
The Northern Lights are actually caused by electrons from solar winds. They are attracted to the poles by the magnetic fields found there. They mix with gases in the atmosphere, causing the gases to glow. Solar flares can also cause the Northern Lights to appear.
Using chalks and smudging techniques, some great design began to emerge. The children chose colours carefully and mixed these to create a vision of light.
The finished gallery.
