New
New
3D Design: found materials
I can create a sculpture using found materials that reflect a theme or concept.
Lesson 4 of 9
New
New
- Year 10
3D Design: found materials
I can create a sculpture using found materials that reflect a theme or concept.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Found materials let artists explore new forms, textures and ideas not possible with traditional sculpture.
- Using found objects supports recycling, sustainability and an eco-friendly approach to making art.
- Found materials bring history and meaning, letting artists comment on culture, history, or social issues.
Keywords
Assemblage - a sculpture made by combining different found objects
Found materials - materials that have not been bought or created for the purpose of making art, but have been collected from more random sources
Collect - to gather and group objects that link to an idea or theme
Common misconception
Found materials are just junk and don’t belong in real artwork.
Found materials bring unique textures and personal or cultural meaning to a sculpture.
Ask pupils to bring in a few found objects linked to a theme (e.g. memory, home, personal choice). Include one “surprise” object that doesn’t fit within the theme. This helps explore contrast, create unexpected links and develop understanding of how meaning shifts when objects are curated.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Found materials collected by pupils, glue, tape, glue gun, wire, fabrics, card, papers, string, paints, printed images
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the 3D shape of an object called?
What is the 3D shape of an object called?
its dimensions
its structure
its surface
Q2.What is a container - something which holds or carries things - often called?
What is a container - something which holds or carries things - often called?
Q3.A is how a form is built and supported so it can exist.
A is how a form is built and supported so it can exist.
Q4.What does papier-mâché layer over a mould or base?
What does papier-mâché layer over a mould or base?
card and glue
cling film and glue
cork and glue
Q5.Which artist created the 2012 artwork 'Skin’: a delicate paper vessel that emphasises texture, flow and repetition?
Which artist created the 2012 artwork 'Skin’: a delicate paper vessel that emphasises texture, flow and repetition?
Chris Bramble
Cecilia Levy
Studio Lenca
Q6.What should you cover your structure with before covering in papier-mâché?
What should you cover your structure with before covering in papier-mâché?
