Works of Art

Hanukkah Lamps

Aim: To use found materials to create Hanukkah lamps inspired by Joel Otterson’s Unorthodox Menorah II.

Materials: A variety of found objects and assorted craft materials (for example, glue, wire, foil, wood blocks and tiles

Procedure:

1. Have students view and compare the works of art below. Discuss with students:

• How are these two pieces similar? How are they different?
  
• What materials are used? How are they used?
  
• Based on these two objects, what do you think are the requirements for a Hanukkah lamp?
  
• Why do you think these two lamps look so different?

2. The Hanukkah lamps used over the centuries vary in form and decoration, but all have eight lights usually placed in a row and on the same level. Since it is forbidden to use the Hanukkah lights for any secular purpose, a ninth light—the shamash, or servitor—is often added to serve as a source of illumination and to kindle the other lights. Other than that, there are few requirements for a Hanukkah lamp. Joel Otterson created his lamp from a variety of found and unexpected materials. Have your students use found materials to create Hanukkah lamps inspired by Otterson’s work.

3. Make a variety of found materials and craft supplies available to students. These should include some items that could be used as a base (for example, trays, plates, boxes, blocks of wood, pieces of foil) and some that could be use as candle or oil holders (for example, shot glasses, thimbles, plastic bottle caps, screw nuts).

4. Give students time to explore the materials and begin creating. Encourage them to be thoughtful about their constructions: How will the different objects and materials work together visually? Is there a theme or idea behind the work? Is the lamp practical? Could it be used?

5. Encourage students to incorporate their own heroes into their work as well.