In my last blog, I said I would talk about ideas for when you go to visit the art museum, and a few of my favorite things to teach art.
A Few More Things I Like for Art
I’ve already written a about some of my favorite picks for art and some suggestions for teaching. Of course, I think for every homeschooler, as our needs change or even just our course work, so do our ‘favorites’.
Usborne Internet Linked Book of Art
This book is definitely for the older child as it is more about art appreciation and viewing fine art than it is about doing an actual art project. However, if you’re at all interested in teaching ‘masters’ and then having your child do art accordingly–this is a great book. What I love about this book–actually about all Usborne internet linked books–is that each page comes with at least one (but usually 3 to 4) links for further explanation on the internet. I consider these to offer the best of the best of topic-specific websites for kids.
How to Go Through Your Art Museum
Whenever I talk about taking my kids to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, someone inevitably balks, “You take your little kids in there? Aren’t they bored to tears?” Obviously, if they were bored to tears, I wouldn’t take them. . .but there are a few tricks that we use to make it more interesting.
Looking at Paintings–Art involves an artist trying to convey a message. When we look at some of the classic paintings we make up stories about the people in the paintings. I ask my kids questions like who, what, when, why, etc. Some paintings don’t evoke a whole lot for them and that’s okay–don’t push for something. But you’ll likely find at least one piece (and probably more) evoke a well spring of oral creativity from your children.
Art & History–History and cultures can come alive through art. Art isn’t just paintings and drawings on the wall. . .it also can include clothing, furniture, architecture, ancient writing, even armor. It is well worth your effort to do a little research and choose a specific wing to visit in your museum. Learn about the history of the art you’re visiting. And where do you go to do this you might ask? Check the museum’s website. It will be chalk full of information for you to plan your visit.
Those are just a few ideas. What are your favorite ways to teach art?