Form Drawing workbook
A line is a serenity of a movement. A line, initiated by movement, becomes visible on paper and then continues to move further. When we see a line we are mentally guided by this movement, and we recognize the shape it forms. Thus, each drawn form is a retired movement.
Rudolf Steiner introduced form drawing as a new art impulse in the Steiner Waldorf Education. Rudolf discussed the importance of drawing, and form drawing in particular, at various points in his speeches. He illustrates the importance of form drawing and allows the experience of fervour in a number of ways.
Firstly, he indicates that the act of drawing flowing and angular forms aids in the development of children's fine motor skills which, in turn, facilitates the process of learning how to write. Secondly, he illustrates that form drawing is a powerful tool to work on the temperaments. As a third effect of form drawing, Steiner refers to the development of geometrical forms, the foundations for which are provided in the first years of school. Finally, he indicates that as a fourth effect of form drawing children may develop a basic sense of forms. Accordingly, he considered it critical that children would not copy the visual appearance of a shape prior to developing a healthy understanding of the basic shapes such as square, triangle, and so on.
Since Steiner's introduction of form drawing, a number of books have been produced which illustrate these distinctive aspects of form drawing in both words and images. Most teachers of the Steiner Waldorf Education method will be able to imagine the shapes from these books. Although this literature has provided sufficient materials for the development of a lesson plan, one component, which I refer to as 'form-fantasy', has not been discussed. Based on the knowledge of simple shapes, how does one learn to develop complex imaginative shapes, which are in line with the aformentioned aspects?
Through his «Form Drawing Workbook» Peter Giesen provides insights into the multitude of forms that can emerge from a basic form. A vision on lesson plan contents and an approach that stimulates the imagination is presented in this workbook. I believe this book can be of guidance for teachers who wish to use this inspirational approach to explore and experiment in the world of shapes. For the children, this book will stimulate their desire to generate forms. «A book that stimulates self-design of the form drawing lesson plan». (Foreword by Paul van Meurs - May 2011)
Peter Giesen (1955) has 34 years of experience in education, including a 32 year connection with the Steiner Waldorf Education method. In addition, he lectures at various teaching courses at the Academy for Parents in Driebergen and Venlo. Peter also provides lectures and courses for adults in the fi elds of anthroposophy, pedagogy, the 12 senses, the temperaments, artistic subjects and bookbinding.
Code M
65211900
