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...]
Oil Pastel Flowers Inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe
Elementary students are sure to feel successful with this Georgia O'Keeffe-inspired art project. This lesson is ideal for grades 3-5, although you can adapt it up or down depending on your needs. Oil pastels are the key to achieving this rich and expressive, painterly effect... and kids love using them. They are vivid and bright, easy to work with and yield stunning … [Read more...]
5 Fun Art Ideas with Pencil and Paper
If you're looking for alternatives to screentime for your kids, nothing beats going "old school" with a pencil and paper! It's amazing how much fun can be had with such simple supplies. What you'll need All you need is a pencil, some paper, a flat surface to draw on, and my free download, "5 FUN Art Activities Kids Can Do with a Pencil & Paper". An eraser can also be … [Read more...]
The Stocking Stuffer for Artists
I recently discovered a handy pocket-size tool that would make the perfect stocking stuffer for any aspiring artist... It's called a "ViewCatcher". At first glance, you might assume it's just a viewfinder, but it's actually much more than just that! What the ViewCatcher does Like any good viewfinder, the ViewCatcher will help you create a strong composition. When … [Read more...]
The Surprising Truth About Teaching Drawing to Kids
Why teach drawing to kids? When you teach drawing to kids, you're giving them a skill that pays big dividends in today’s world. Drawing is the foundation for many forms of art. But you certainly don’t need to be an “artist” or work in an art-related career to benefit from drawing. Anyone can use drawing to explore an idea, solve a problem, give visual form to a mental … [Read more...]
Break an Art World Record
You can be part of an exciting World Record event, right from your own home! Make art and break a record - all while helping people affected by COVID-19. British author and illustrator Rob Biddulph (together with Art World Records) is attempting to break the record for the World's Largest Online Art Lesson on Thursday, May 21st, 2020 (4pm BST, 11am EDT, 8am PDT). But this … [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...]
Patriotic Noisemaker Tacos
Take your summer craft projects to the next level when you include the Elements of Art (line, shape, form, space, texture, value, color) and the Principles of Design (contrast, rhythm, proportion, balance, unity, emphasis, movement, and variety). Look for ways you can weave some of this art vocabulary into every project you teach, like I've done with the project below. Be … [Read more...]
What Your Handwriting Can Tell You About Yourself and Others
January 23rd is National Handwriting Day! Did you know your handwriting can show evidence of more than 5,000 different personality traits, and even be used to detect lies and possible health issues? Graphology (or handwriting analysis) can help you learn more about yourself and others. Check out the fun infographic below from National Pen. Would you like your … [Read more...]
Send a Handmade Postcard to Support the Arts
Show your support for the Arts with a handmade postcard! January’s #CMACIVICKIDS Digital Challenge is a Postcard Party. When you send a postcard to one of your elected officials with your original art on the front, your message is more likely to get noticed. And a self-portrait will make your communication even more personal! You’ll Need: *card stock (if you have … [Read more...]
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