Blog
Fireworks Salt Painting for the 4th of July
Learn how to create a raised salt fireworks painting in this fun and educational art project perfect for all ages. This step-by-step guide covers materials, instructions, and tips to help you create a dazzling fireworks display using simple art supplies. Enhance your classroom art activities with this engaging and creative project.
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Spray Bottle Plant Silhouettes Art Project for Kids
Making art doesn't need to be kept to the indoors! Get your whole family outside for this arts integrated lesson perfect for the whole family! Use the beauty of nature as your muse to create these gorgeous spray paint plant silhouettes.
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Easy Mother's Day Art Project for Kids: Printed Floral Bouquet
Ready for the perfect mix of fun and exciting processes that ALSO results in a gorgeous final art product? Well then let me introduce you to my “Printed Petals” lesson. Inspired by the legendary artist Pablo Picasso and his print titled “Bouquet of Peace”, this engaging lesson is designed for students in grades K-3 and will delve into the fascinating world of printmaking techniques.
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Meet Quell: Our New Brand for Artists, Creatives and Makers!
When my husband Chris and I first met, we bonded over two things: our love of 90s hip hop and a mutual love and admiration for the arts and all things creative. To be able to share your passion for the arts with your life partner is not something we take for granted and just makes life FUN! So, we decided to team up and create a brand that is as vibrant and inspiring as the people it serves. We wanted to create a brand that made creating art more accessible and that will actually make you WANT to create more! In a world that is so digitized, to us there seems to be nothing more human than creating a piece of art that comes from your head, heart and through your hands. We want our products to break the barrier and help you just “Go Art”! So why the name “Quell”? We have gotten this question a lot so we’d love to share! To quell something means to quiet, subdue or silence something and for us- that is exactly what creating art does to our brains. It quells the so called 🧠“racket” if you will. The anxiety, to do lists, ruminating thoughts etc. Creating art connects your mind and body and allows you to feel 100% present and grounded. Not to mention, our daughter named Quinn, never sees Q’s out in the world so we thought it would be special to embrace as Q as our logo 🩷😊 Our first product is The Artist Apron! Our artist apron designed with form AND function at the top of mind. The artist apron is light weight, high quality, easily removable (to take on and off quickly between classes) with a specific pocket for a phone (so it isn’t sliding around with all the other misc materials in the pocket, pencil/ brush holders aaaand MY FAVORITE PART: a special mini pocket to keep your jewelry safe place when you’re hands are messy! We cannot thank yall enough for your support in our new venture and can’t wait to share all that we have in store for Quell in the future! Our carefully curated and meticulously designed aprons are just the beginning!! Thank you for being here and part of the Quell Community 🩷
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Talk Pittsburgh: Segment with Art With Mrs. E
Art with Mrs. E teaches kids, adults and educators how to tap into their creativity, bringing to life blank pieces of paper and bare classroom walls. Kaitlyn Edington, art teacher and artist joined Pittsburgh's local news show, Talk Pittsburgh, to chat about all things art related and even teaches an art lesson to the host!
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Foil Marker Printing Rainbow Art Project Perfect for St. Patrick's Day
Are you ready to create a fun, easy and gorgeous art project for St. Patrick's Day? Well then look no further than foil marker printing! In this blog you will learn how to do this project with step by step photos and even a free St. Patrick's Day Drawing guide! The best part about this project? Most of the supplies you already have at home!
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Dog Weaving Art Lesson for Elementary Children
Unlock your students' artistic potential with engaging art lessons inspired by renowned artists and their beloved pets. Discover how to teach weaving projects with students' that will incorporate their love for animals, inspired by artists like Picasso and Kahlo and their precious dogs.
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How to Make Shaving Cream Marbled Paper Valentines
Let's make a fun and easy marbled paper valentine! Perfect for artists of all ages using only shaving cream and liquid watercolor- anyone can do it!
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5 Creative Process-Based Valentine's Day Art Projects for All Ages
Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by engaging in some fun and creative art projects? In this blog, we'll explore five unique process-based Valentine's Day art projects that are not only enjoyable but also perfect for all ages. From marbled paper prints to cardboard tube printed hearts, these projects promise a delightful and artistic celebration of love. 1. Marbled Paper Prints: Materials needed: Shaving cream, liquid watercolors or food coloring, cardstock paper, toothpicks, a squee gee spatula and a tray.Steps:1. Spray a layer of shaving cream onto a tray.2. Smooth it out with a spatula or the back of a spoon.3. Add drops of liquid watercolors or food coloring to the surface.4. Use a toothpick to swirl the colors into unique patterns.5. Gently press a piece of cardstock onto the surface.6. Lift the paper, scrape off excess shaving cream, and reveal your beautiful marbled print.This project not only produces stunning results but also allows for endless experimentation with colors and designs. 2. Bubble Wrap Printing: Materials needed: Bubble wrap, tempera paint, paper, and a brayer or paintbrush.Steps:1. Cut a piece of bubble wrap to the desired size.2. Apply tempera paint onto the bubble wrap using a brayer or paintbrush.3. Lay a piece of paper on top of the painted bubble wrap.4. Gently rub the paper to help transfer the paint 5. Gently lift the paper from the bubble wrap to reveal the printed pattern.Bubble wrap printing is a tactile and engaging activity that results in textured and visually interesting prints. 3. Painted Paper Hearts: Materials needed: paper, various paint colors, paintbrushes, and scissors.Steps:1. Gather paper. You can use drawing paper, newsprint or contruction paper 2. Paint paper with pinks, reds, violet paint.3. Layer colors, and use different tools to scratch textures into paint while wet4. Experiment with blending and layering colors 5. Allow paper to dry completely then cut painted paper into different hearts to collage together This simple yet effective project encourages creativity and personal expression, making it a perfect Valentine's Day activity for kids and adults alike. 4. Squeegee Hearts: Materials needed: Paper, acrylic paint, a squeegee, and a flat surface.Steps:1. Apply small dots of different colored acrylic paint directly onto the top of a piece of paper.2. Use a squeegee to pull paint down the paper. 3. Allow the artwork to dry thoroughly. 4. Cut painted paper into heart shapes 5. Cardboard Tube Printed Hearts: Materials needed: Cardboard tubes, paint, paper, and scissors.Steps: 1. Grab a piece of paper, paint and cardboard tube2. Dip the flattened end into paint.3. Stamp the painted cardboard tube onto paper to create circle prints4. Repeat with different colors and arrangements.5. Allow the artwork to dry before cutting into hearts/ valentinesCardboard tube printed hearts offer a playful and eco-friendly approach to Valentine's Day art, utilizing repurposed materials for a charming result.These five process-based Valentine's Day art projects are not only enjoyable to create but also provide a wonderful opportunity to express creativity and celebrate love in a unique way. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just looking for a fun family activity, these projects are sure to add a touch of artful joy to your Valentine's Day celebrations!
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Carnegie Museum of Art's New Identity: Where All Are Welcome
If you grew up visiting the Carnegie Museum of Art, as I have, you might have noticed some recent changes to the museum’s presence. Not in its architecture or interior design, but in its warm and welcoming new visual identity. The new branding, initiated in 2020, has not only revitalized the visual identity but to me has also fundamentally altered the museum's essence. Now, as a parent bringing my own children to explore the magic within the galleries, I find the new identity acting as a bridge: connecting generations and fostering a more inclusive space for all its visitors, especially families. In the realm of fine art, where some museums can feel pretentious and cold, Carnegie Museum of Art has set out to redefine the narrative. This new identity is more than a visual overhaul; it's a deliberate effort to create an environment that is friendly, vibrant, and intentionally accessible to all those who enter. So, how does this relate to families and, particularly, to those visiting with younger children? Let’s dive into it! Colors that Spark Imagination: One standout feature of the museum's new identity is its expansive and fluid color palette. Rather than adhering to a static and predictable scheme, the array of colors symbolizes a world of creative possibilities. For children, these colors become a visual playground, sparking their imagination and making the museum a place of wonder. Whether you are browsing the Carnegie Museum of Art’s website or walking into any of the galleries, you will be greeted with bright, bold, and welcoming colors. Custom Fonts and Individuality: A favorite aspect of the rebrand is the custom typeface design. The introduction of custom fonts goes beyond aesthetics; it's a proclamation of individuality. This uniqueness extends an invitation to young minds to explore their own creative expressions. By differentiating itself, Carnegie Museum of Art cultivates an environment where children are encouraged to embrace their perspectives, fostering a sense of ownership and belonging. Adaptive Imagery: Children are natural storytellers, and the rebrand's emphasis on adaptive imagery resonates with this inherent quality. Every piece of art tells a story, and the thoughtful curation and creation of images ensure that these stories are diverse and relatable. This approach transforms the museum into a dynamic storyteller, capturing the attention of young visitors and connecting them to the vast world of art narratives. Friendly, Clear, and Accessible Design: A Gateway for Families: The commitment to friendliness, clarity, and accessibility is a game-changer for families exploring art together. The visual identity brings all aspects of the museum to the forefront, making it easy for parents and children alike to navigate the endless offerings. Carnegie Museum of Art’s visual identity brings everything they create—art, educational programs, exhibitions, events, or more—to the surface, making them visible and more accessible to visitors. Inclusivity as a Building Block: The core of this transformation lies in inclusivity. By breaking away from the stereotypical notion of a museum, Carnegie Museum of Art is a space where families from all walks of life can feel at home. The new identity ensures that art is not confined to the walls of a gallery but is a living, breathing entity that welcomes and embraces everyone. Not to mention, the smiling faces of employees welcoming little ones into the galleries. On a personal note, I have never felt anything but welcomed by employees when entering a gallery with my young children, and that feeling of acceptance and inclusivity has been so encouraging and meaningful to me and my family. I am absolutely thrilled about this new chapter for Carnegie Museum of Art and its one-of-a-kind visual identity. To me, the messaging couldn’t be more clear: At Carnegie Museum of Art, all are welcome. The colors, fonts, imagery, and overall design are carefully crafted to engage, inspire, and connect with children and their families. The museum's commitment to accessibility and inclusivity ensures that every child, regardless of background, can find a piece of art that speaks directly to them. It's not just a rebrand; it's an invitation for the young art enthusiasts of today to become the artists, curators, and art appreciators of tomorrow. To learn more about Carnegie Museum of Art’s visual identity, check out their website here.
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The Magic of Teaching Art to Kids: Bringing Out Their Inner Artist
The following blog has been written by Andrea Gibbs, a blog contributer from Baby Steps Preschool in Queens, NY. The Magic of Teaching Art to Kids: Bringing Out Their Inner Artist As a mom who loved art, I always knew I wanted to share that passion with my children. So, from an early age, I encouraged them to create and explore their imaginations through various art projects. As they grew older, I realized that teaching kids art was a fun pastime and a valuable way to enhance their cognitive and social development. Art allows children to learn how to think critically and communicate their ideas effectively. Although it's incredibly rewarding, it can also be challenging at times. Children will tend to lose focus, be distracted, and not give the subject the attention it deserves. However, with a little creativity and a fresh approach, it can be both exciting and fun for all involved. With that in mind, I have provided some easy methods and guidelines to help beginner parents understand the basics of teaching art to kids. Benefits of Teaching Art to Kids First, I would like to share the benefits my child has gained from our art lessons. And I think you will agree with me that the benefits are tremendous. As a parent and an artist, I have taken on the responsibility of my child's art education. Here are just some of the benefits my son receives from me passing on this passion to him. Improves Creativity When my child starts to draw a figure, he also starts to use his imagination. With the act of creating and forcing him to think outside of the box, he gradually becomes more creative. Many times I'll see a spark of imagination that wasn't there before. I am able to help him think differently and figure out new ways to solve problems when he draws. This is a huge benefit for my son because it enables him to be more open-minded when solving various tasks that might come up in life in the future. Develops Fine Motor Skills As soon as my child shows interest in using a crayon, I make it a point to help him learn how to grasp the crayon correctly. Once he got a sense of it, I gave him several art supplies, such as paper, glue, markers, and paint, and allowed him to create. As a result of my involvement, my son slowly starts to develop his fine motor skills. And I know that this skill is important because it will aid him in the future with things like drawing, writing, sewing, cooking, and other activities requiring fine motor skills. Enhances Critical Thinking Abilities When my child has a clear idea of what he wants to do with an art project or application, I encourage him to find out how he can achieve his idea. He is constantly making decisions about colors, shapes, and sizes. He is learning to analyze and evaluate his work, an essential skill that will benefit him in school and beyond. Promotes Self-Expression Art allows my child to express himself without the limitations of language. He can communicate his emotions, thoughts, and ideas through his artwork. This gives him a sense of empowerment and control over his own self-expression, which can help boost his self-esteem and confidence. Boosts Confidence As my child becomes more proficient in his art skills, he gains a sense of pride and accomplishment. He can see the progress he has made over time, which boosts my child's confidence in his abilities. This can translate into other areas of his life, such as academics or sports, where he may have previously lacked confidence. Increases Cultural Awareness Art is a universal language, and by exposing my child to different styles and techniques, I am also exposing him to different cultures and ways of life. This can help broaden his perspective and increase his understanding and appreciation of diversity. Approaches to Teaching Art to Kids As a parent or educator, it can be challenging to know how to approach teaching art to kids. Fortunately, you can use several effective strategies to help your child or students develop their artistic skills and creativity. Here are some approaches that I have found helpful when working with my son: 1. Encouraging Experimentation and Exploration One of the best ways to help kids learn about art is to allow them to experiment and explore different materials and techniques. Provide a variety of art supplies such as: Crayons Markers Paint Clay Collage Materials Then encourage your child to try out different combinations and techniques. For example, my son loves to experiment with watercolors and salt. He enjoys sprinkling salt on the wet paint to create interesting textures and patterns. By allowing him to explore and experiment, he has familiarized himself with techniques that he can use to express himself creatively. 2. Providing Opportunities for Self-Expression and Creativity Art is a powerful tool for self-expression, and it's important to provide opportunities for kids to create art that reflects their unique personalities and interests. Encourage your child to express their ideas and feelings through their artwork, and avoid placing too many restrictions or expectations on what they create. For instance, my son loves to draw pictures of animals and nature scenes. I encourage him to add creative touches to his drawings, such as adding imaginary creatures or unusual colors. 3. Tailoring Instruction to Each Child's Abilities and Interests Every child is unique, and adapting your teaching approach to fit your child's abilities and interests is important. This can involve modifying assignments or providing extra support when needed. For instance, my son struggles with fine motor skills, so I provide him with larger brushes and thicker pencils to make creating art easier. I also encourage him to explore different art forms that don't require as much dexterity, such as sculpture or collage. 4. Incorporating Diverse Media and Techniques In order to keep kids engaged and interested in art, it's important to incorporate a variety of media and techniques into your teaching. This can include traditional art supplies as well as digital tools and resources. For example, my son enjoys using a drawing tablet to create digital art. We also explore different art styles, such as abstract, impressionism, and pop art, to expose him to various techniques and approaches. 5 . Encouraging Child to Take Risks and Make Mistakes Art is a process of trial and error, and it's important to encourage children to take risks and make mistakes. This helps them to develop problem-solving skills and learn from their experiences. Avoid focusing too much on the final product, and instead, encourage your child to enjoy the process of creating art. For instance, my son often experiments with different colors and techniques, even if he's not sure if they will work. I praise him for his willingness to try new things and celebrate his successes, no matter how small they may seem. 6. Providing Opportunities for Collaborative Art-making Collaborative art-making is a great way to foster social skills and teamwork among children. It allows them to work together to create something unique and encourages them to communicate and share ideas. You can set up group projects that involve multiple children working on the same piece of art or have them work together to create a mural or installation. My son enjoys working with his friends to create collaborative pieces, such as large drawings or paintings, to which they can all contribute. 7. Incorporating Art History and Culture Into Lessons Incorporating art history and culture into art lessons is a great way to expose children to different artistic styles and techniques from around the world. It can also help them to develop an appreciation for the cultural significance of art. You can explore artists like Pablo Picasso or Frida Kahlo and discuss their unique styles and contributions to the art world. You can also introduce different cultural traditions, such as Chinese calligraphy or African mask-making, and have your child create their own interpretations of these art forms. My son loves learning about different cultures and traditions through art, which has helped him develop a more global perspective. 8. Using Positive Reinforcement and Constructive Feedback Finally, providing kids with positive feedback and encouragement is important to help them develop confidence and self-esteem. Be specific in your praise and highlight what your child did well rather than focusing on what they didn't do. For example, when my son completes a drawing, I make sure to praise him for his use of color or the creative details he included. If he's struggling with a particular aspect of the assignment, I offer constructive feedback and guidance to help him improve. I hope these tips and suggestions will be helpful to you as you work with your child to develop their artistic skills. Remember that art is a lifelong journey, and it's important to be patient as children progress through different stages of development. Author Bio Andrea is currently the head of content management at SpringHive Web Design Company, a digital agency that provides creative web design, social media marketing, email marketing, and search engine optimization services to small businesses and entrepreneurs. She is also a blog contributor at Baby Steps Preschool where she writes storytime themes, parenting tips, and seasonal activities to entertain children. Keyword: boosts my child's confidence in his abilities Location: under 5. Boosts Confidence - second sentence Link: https://nybabysteps.com/blog/how-to-build-confidence-in-kids/
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5 Amazing Pieces of Art to Explore with Your Children at Carnegie Museum of Art
Carnegie Museum of Art is a historic and captivating art museum with vibrant masterpieces that sparks creativity in everyone- even kids! In this blog I will be share 5 pieces of art that are perfect for seeing and discussing with young children for an enriching art experience for the whole family.
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