Grant Wood (1891-1942) was an American artist best known for his paintings of rural American life. My students were fascinated by the story of how his father died when Grant was only ten years old, and his mother had to move her family from their home on the farm to the big city. This was a hard move for Grant, who missed his farm animals and his life in the country. He felt … [Read more...]
Happy 100th Day of School!
Last week our adorable Kinders celebrated the "100th Day of School". One of their many fun activities was to draw self-portraits of themselves today and in 100 years! As you can see, the results were charming!! Even if your 100th Day of School has already passed, this is a fun project to do anytime!1. Fold a piece of 12"x18" white construction paper in half.2. On the left … [Read more...]
Picasso Portraits – Kindergarten Style!
Picasso gives us many great opportunities to teach about abstract art! I like to do this lesson with my Kinders after I teach them the more "traditional" methods of drawing portraits. They really enjoy this chance to "get a little crazy" with their art! (Warning: Get ready to hear some of the FUNNIEST comments from 5 and 6 year olds while doing this project.... My favorite … [Read more...]
Wild ‘n Crazy Picasso Portraits
"Picasso Portraits", taught by Mrs. Mendence to her 2nd graders,after attending my teacher workshop, "Teach Kids Art with Markers"Nothing beats abstract art for getting kids to loosen up and just have fun with being creative! Not having to worry about making your picture look "realistic" really takes the pressure off, and for many, can be a totally freeing experience!Pablo … [Read more...]
Personalized Self-Portraits
Third grade self-portrait by ZacharyUse the inspiration of artist Frida Kahlo to have your students add a personalized touch to their self-portraits. Frida Kahlo is known for her prolific painting career.... paintings mostly of herself! She often used symbolism in her paintings as a "window to her soul". I like to have students add "something that helps people know them … [Read more...]
Self-Portrait Workshop – Paul Klee
Here is a sampling of self-portraits inspired by artist Paul Klee (including one in progress) from my last teacher workshop. Paul Klee (1879-1940) was a Swiss artist known for his highly individual, abstract style. His work was influenced by many different art movements, including Expressionism, Cubism and Surrealism. This project uses squares of "bleeding tissue" for it's … [Read more...]
Teacher Workshop: Self-Portraits!
I just finished the 4th workshop in my "Teaching Teachers to Teach Art" series. This workshop focused on teaching Self-Portraits and we had a blast! We learned the basic "rules" for drawing portraits (see below) and did three self-portrait projects inspired by famous artists Paul Klee, Frida Kahlo and Amedeo Modigliani. I'll be sharing those lessons here on my blog over the … [Read more...]
Fun Paper “Frames”
"Framed" Self-Portrait by Colin, First GradeNothing enhances a painting like a good frame! Here's a fun and inexpensive way to frame your students' work.Let's assume you want to frame a 9x12 piece of artwork....1. Take a 12x18 piece of construction paper and trim it to 12x15 inches.2. Center your art on the 12x15 paper (leaving a 1-1/2" margin on each side) and glue it down … [Read more...]
Self-Portraits Inspired by Paul Klee
Kindergarten self-portrait and "Senecio" by Paul Klee One of our wonderful parent volunteers recently shared a great website with me that she found. If you're looking for new art lessons to try, check out Kathy Barbaro's "Art Projects for Kids". I found a great idea on her website for "painting" with tissue paper, which I tried with one of our Kindergarten … [Read more...]
