Tray Stamp (or Tray-cut Print)

Like wood-cut prints but with meat trays


Minnesota 4-5 Visual Art Standards used in this Lesson:

  • 1. Demonstrate knowledge of the foundations of the arts area.
  • 1A. Describe the characteristics of the elements of visual art including color, line, shape, value, form, texture and space.

  • 1b. Describe how the principles of visual art such as repetition, pattern, emphasis, contrast and balance are used in the creation, presentation or response to visual artworks.

  • 1c. Identify characteristics of Western and non- Western styles, movements and genres in art.

  • 2. Demonstrate knowledge and use of the technical skills of the art form, integrating technology when applicable.
  • 2a. Describe the tools, materials and techniques used in a variety of two- and three-dimensional media such as drawing, printmaking, ceramics or sculpture.

  • 3. Demonstrate understanding of the personal, social, cultural and historical contexts that influence the arts areas.
  • 3a. Describe the personal, social, cultural, or historical contexts that influence the creation of visual artworks including the contributions of Minnesota American Indian tribes and communities.

  • 3b. Describe how visual art communicates meaning.
  • 4. Create or make in a variety of contexts in the arts area using the artistic foundations.
  • 4a. Create original two- and-three-dimensional artworks to express specific artistic ideas.
  • 4b. Revise artworks based on the feedback of others and self-reflection.
  • 6. Respond to or critique a variety of creations and performances using the artistic foundations.
  • 6a. Justify personal interpretations and reactions to works of visual art.

    • Additional Tie-ins

  • Print Processes
  • Mirror Images
  • Multimedia
  • Art History/ Artist's Work

    • Students start by reviewing many different printing processes and some print artists' work.

    Students are shown examples of our finished projects and given a demonstration on how to draw and cut out their images from styrofoam "meat" trays. Special note is made that the images will be reversed so any letters need to be made backwards so that they print correctly.

    Drawing with dull pencils indents the styrofoam and leaves lines that can add detail to their prints. After the image is cut out, students glue the image to the back of another styrofoam piece. When the glue is dry we apply paint with brushes and print our images by stamping the tray-cut onto paper multiple times.

    Multiple colors can be applied to different areas of the image to add detail.

    When the prints are dry we discuss "Art Presentation" and how important it is to present your artwork nicely. Students will cut out 4 prints and mount them on a black "frame" so we can hang them in the hall.