Inspired by the richly layered history of Cuba’s capital, this piece by Ms. Macaulay’s 5th grade class explores the artistic principles of color, pattern, rhythm, and unity. Each student first selected from a palette that reflected the colors seen in street scenes of Havana. Using a dry brush technique, they generously painted a 4-inch canvas block to create a heavily textured surface. The class experimented with masking and learned about the visual design concepts of line and form to add right angles of gold leaf on each block. When assembled, the canvases create an abstract, geometric pattern that can be oriented vertically or horizontally. Brighten up a spot in your home with this unique and engaging work that invokes the lively spirit of this Caribbean island nation.