Vincent van Gogh had always been one of my favorite artists. Then I read this book, and my appreciation for him grew even greater. I thought I already knew a lot about van Gogh, but "Learning from Henri Nouwen & Vincent van Gogh - A Portrait of the Compassionate Life" by Carol A. Berry taught me much more than I was expecting. Now van Gogh is more than just "one of my … [Read more...]
How to Choose Famous Artist Books Kids will Love
There's no better way to teach art history and cultural literacy to kids than with projects inspired by famous artists. But did you know that how you introduce the artist can make or break the success of your project? This is where famous artist books for kids can save the day. Kids love stories (who doesn't?) so you can get their attention right from the start by … [Read more...]
Abstract Art Project Inspired by Joan Miró
Kids of all ages enjoy art history when you teach it through projects inspired by the work of famous artists. Abstract art is especially fun for kids because it removes the pressure that can come with trying to achieve "realism". This project is inspired by the Surrealist movement and the work of Spanish artist Joan Miró. Joan (pronounced "Djo-ahn") Miró was a painter, … [Read more...]
Puzzled About Creative Gift Ideas?
With the holiday season coming up fast, I'll be sharing some art-related gift ideas you might not have thought of! These gifts will encourage creative problem solving, divergent thinking, and all kinds of skills that are necessary for art and life! This is part one in a series of posts for creative gift giving. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss discovering a perfect … [Read more...]
Find Your Best Composition With a Viewfinder
How do you choose what to paint or draw when there are so many choices in front of you? Whether your subject is a landscape, still life, or portrait, arranging your composition can be challenging when your options feel limitless. A viewfinder can help you select your best option. A viewfinder is a simple tool you can make yourself with strips of cardboard or popsicle … [Read more...]
“Collage Who You Are” Self-Portrait
For centuries, artists have created self-portraits to give others a glimpse into who they are. Since our likes and dislikes, personalities, hobbies, and skills all contribute to making us interesting and unique, why not include those in a self-portrait, too? And what could be a more fun approach to this than a mixed media collage??! For this project we used a bit of … [Read more...]
Should We Take the “ART” Out of Art Education?
So many good podcasts compete for our time today.... how do you choose which ones to listen to? Well, occasionally a title just grabs my attention and won’t let go. This is one of those podcasts! With a headline that reads "Let’s Get Rid of Art Education”, I couldn’t help but take notice. Podcaster Danny Gregory has been a life-long advocate for the arts with his books, … [Read more...]
Do You Have an Art Teacher Hero?
Have the arts had a positive impact on your life? Is there one teacher who really made a difference? For me, it was Mr. Muck, my high school Art teacher. He taught me to believe in myself, to work hard, and to always do my best. His art room was a safe place when I really needed it. I can't imagine my high school years without him. If education in the arts made a … [Read more...]
Happy Birthday, Teach Kids Art!
(Visit me on Instagram for a chance to win my TEN most popular products from my TPT store!) Ten years ago today, Teach Kids Art was born! I was teaching K-8 Art at a small private school and putting SO much work into every lesson I taught. It was rare for schools to provide an Art curriculum to work from.... most Art teachers were just expected to create their own. And this … [Read more...]
Musee d’Orsay vs. the Louvre
My visit to the Musee d'Orsay was a completely different experience from my time at the Louvre. At the d'Orsay, I saw lots more quiet contemplation of the art (Renoir, Manet, Monet, Cezanne, Van Gogh and more).... and far fewer selfies! I was filled with awe as I explored the Van Gogh room, and completely taken aback when I came to the painting of Van Gogh's bedroom.... … [Read more...]
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