This Art and Design scheme of work supports children’s creation of abstract relief sculptures inspired by Louise Nevelson. In this lesson, children reflect on personal memories, using shapes to express ideas in an abstract way. They begin by making a paper collage of cut shapes to plan their composition. This helps pupils translate flat designs into three-dimensional forms.

Children experiment with folding, stacking, and manipulating card to add depth and texture. The focus is on exploring materials and making artistic decisions, rather than replicating the paper design exactly. Teachers are encouraged to allow pupils to problem solve and experiment, rather than providing set solutions. Once assembled, sculptures are painted, with pupils choosing a single colour like Nevelson or selecting tones that reflect their memory themes.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Year 6 Sculpture and 3D: Making memories unit. This lesson develops children’s understanding of abstract art, composition, and 3D form while building independence and confidence.

See more of our Year 6 Art and design scheme of work.

Art and design, Year 6, Sculpture and 3D: Making memories, Lesson 2: Relief sculptures.