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Dog Weaving Art Lesson for Elementary Children

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

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

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

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 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

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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10 Amazing Winter Village Art Lesson Ideas!

10 Amazing Winter Village Art Lesson Ideas!

If there is one thing I've made over the years that just seems to be the gift that keeps on giving to me, my kids and students, it's my winter village drawing guide.  Originally created during covid teaching, I created this drawing guide because I had just been notified that my son's classroom would be shut down due to quarantine- and THEN my daughter's room! So in totally I ended up actually being at my teaching job probably 5 days in December. So thank GOODNESS I had my winter village guide created because this guide could be used in SO many ways and was easy as pie for the sub to facilitate! Since then, I have seen so many incredible art and classroom teachers use this guide to create beautiful lessons! Here are 11 ways you can use my Winter Village drawing guide throughout the holiday season at home and in the classroom. 1. Paint the Windows This is such a fun and easy activity that can be done just yourself or you can involve your students or children to help you! All you need is my Winter Village Guide to help as a reference image! For more information on how to paint windows with a winter village, check out my blog post here!  2. White pencil on black paper lesson This lesson was born from a sub plan and the results turned out so beautiful I decided to integrate it into my curriculum for the winter! All you need is black construction paper and a high(er) quality white colored pencil (I love Prismacolors) and perhaps a bit of glitter, and wa-la! A gorgeous work of art! You can find the whole project on this blog post!  3. Draw as a banner for kids to paint/ color in This was such a fun activity for my adapted art class! Drawn out with a bingo dauber on kraft paper for my students to color and paint in using Kwik Stix, construction paper crayons, oil pastels and tempera paint.  4. Handmade gift bags Using white tempera paint or white paint pens, this is such a great way to add a personal touch to a gift bag. All you need is a brown paper bag, fold the top corners in and then paint the bag to look like a winter village house with touches of ginger bread home elements. Add a fun tag and wa-la!  5. Winter village garland Using the same design elements, put those cardboard boxes to work and create a string of garland! 6. Make Giant Cardboard Gingerbread Homes This was always a favorite in my adapted art class. Using left over paper storage boxes (the kind with a trifold). I started each one with a basic house outline with a white Kwik Stix, then provide each student with the box, white paint, pom poms, sequins, etc. to decorate as a large gingerbread house. You can find more information about this project on my blog post here.    7. Winter Village meets Van Gogh  I love this lesson idea from my friend @ms.tice_is_nice. Black and white homes against a gorgeous Van Gogh inspired sky background.  8. Winter Village Printmaking Project  This is a project from @art_with_oconnor and I'm obsessed! She had her students draw their village on styrofoam printing plates to create a layered city look.      9. Home for the Holidays Lesson  This was such a fun project! All you need my interior spaces drawing guide to help with the inside of the house!  Be sure to check out this blog post to learn how to do the project!  10. Watercolor Winter Village  I love this combination of the winter village drawings, soft blue shadows, watercolor background and white splatter paint by @create_play_explore!    I hope some of these lessons have sparked some fresh new ideas in you! Have fun and keep creating!   

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Winter Wonderland: 7 Family-Friendly Events at Carnegie Museum of Art

Winter Wonderland: 7 Family-Friendly Events at Carnegie Museum of Art

  As the chill of winter sets in, there's no better time to warm your heart with family-friendly festivities at the Carnegie Museum of Art. As a family, we absolutely love Carnegie museum of art!  So to learn that there are so many family-friendly programs and events happening this winter makes our holiday season extra special! From captivating exhibitions to hands-on workshops, the museum is ready to embrace the season with open arms. Here are seven delightful events & programs at Carnegie Museum of Art that promise to make your winter memorable. Winter Exhibition Celebration (December 14, 6–8 p.m.) Kick off the winter season with a festive bang! On December 14, the museum invites you to a Winter Exhibition Celebration. Enjoy free admission from 6 to 8 p.m. and revel in a night filled with music, community, and conversation. Explore the latest exhibitions, including Unsettling Matter, Gaining Ground, Amie Siegel: Panorama, Pittsburgh Satellite Reef, The Milton and Sheila Fine Collection and warm up in the Hall of Sculpture with a special roundtable toast and a musical call and response. It's an evening the whole family can enjoy! Click here to learn more!  Sounds for the Season Live Musical Performances (Dec. 9, Dec. 23, 2023, Jan. 13, Jan. 27, 2024): Delight in the sounds of the season in the Hall of Architecture among the Carnegie Trees with live musical performances by friends of Carnegie Museum of Art! Gather the family for one or all performances and enjoy a diverse range of music celebrating the cultural traditions of the season. Talented musicians and performers, including River City Brass Band, Camerata 33, Renaissance City Choir, and Taktouka Band, will grace the stage. These enchanting performances will take place on Saturday, Dec. 9, and Dec. 23, 2023, as well as Jan. 13 and Jan. 27, 2024, at 2 p.m. Best of all, no registration is required, and the performances are free with museum admission. Immerse yourself in the harmonious spirit of the holidays amidst the beauty of the Carnegie Trees! Click here to learn more!  Carnegie Trees (Nov. 18, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024) Step into a winter wonderland in the Hall of Architecture with the annual Carnegie Trees installation. Admire towering Fraser fir trees adorned with festive baubles, celebrating the theme "Wintry Days & Frosty Nights." Since 1961, this signature event has marked the beginning of Pittsburgh's holiday season. Don't miss the chance to be enchanted by this dazzling display! Click here to learn more about these gorgeous trees!  Day Off at the Museum (Nov. 27, Dec. 28, 29, 2023, Jan. 15, 2024, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.) Keep the kids entertained during their days off from school with "Day Off at the Museum." Young artists aged 6 through 10 can explore the galleries for inspiration and engage in hands-on art-making. From painting to sculpting, the museum provides a creative space for kids to express themselves and learn new techniques. Register now for a day of artistic exploration! Click the link here to learn more!  Make a Gift of Art Workshops (Dec. 7, 6–8 p.m.; Dec. 17, 2–4 p.m.) Join local artists for special gift-making workshops at the museum. Create unique, handmade artworks under the guidance of Pittsburgh artists Laurie Trok and Marcè Nixon-Washington. With all supplies included, participants will craft personalized gifts that are perfect for the holiday season. Please be sure to register in advance for these engaging and festive workshops (click here to learn more).  Neapolitan Presepio and Art Chats (Nov. 18 – Jan. 7, 2024) Dive into a centuries-old tradition with the Neapolitan presepio. Witness an elaborate nativity scene featuring miniature figures that recreate 18th-century life in Naples. Join Art Chats on Saturdays and Sundays from Dec. 2–24 (10:30–11:30 a.m.) to learn more about this captivating display. It's a perfect opportunity for the family to explore the rich history and artistry on display. To learn more about Art Chats, click here.  Holiday Shopping at the Museum Gift Shop  Of course, we can't forget to explore the treasure trove of the museum's incredible gift shop! Whether you're searching for unique gifts, holiday ornaments, or art-inspired keepsakes, the Carnegie Museum of Art Store and Custom Prints Store have you covered. Be sure to take advantage of special promotions both in-store and online, offering a wide selection of thoughtful and artistic gifts for everyone on your list. You can support the museum while finding the perfect holiday treasures to spread joy among family and friends. Our current favorites in the gift shop are the new line of merch ( I love my white crewneck!) We can't get enough of the new soft and cozy apparel that showcase the new branding and bright colors of the Carnegie Museum of Art. To check out the merchandise, click here!     This winter be sure to create lasting memories with your loved ones at the Carnegie Museum of Art. Whether you're exploring the Neapolitan presepio, marveling at the Carnegie Trees, or getting hands-on with art-making, there's something for every member of the family. There's no better way to embrace the warmth of the season by making the most of these family-friendly events. Visit carnegieart.org to register and learn more about the exciting winter lineup! I hope you and your family enjoy the Carnegie Museum of Art as much as we do! Cheers! 

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Window Painting 101: How to Paint Festive Windows at School or Home

Window Painting 101: How to Paint Festive Windows at School or Home

One of my favorite ways to spread holiday cheer throughout my school community has been to paint the windows. Painting the windows in your classroom, front office, library, wherever is such an amazing way to make a BIG impact with just a little time and paint. This is also a fun way to involve your students in a community based art project (if the imagery is simple enough!) Today I want to share  all I know about window painting, share my process, as well as answer some of the questions I have received over the years when it comes to painting windows. So let's go!  How to Paint Windows for the Holidays:  In this blog, we'll guide you through the creative process of painting your windows, adding a personalized touch to your surroundings that captures the magic of the holidays. Gather Your Supplies: Before diving into your holiday masterpiece, gather the necessary supplies. You can honestly use many different times of paint/ markers to decorate the windows. I prefer to use tempera paint as it just washed right off!  I love Crayola Premier paint.  However, you can also use water based acrylic paint, paint pens, or chalk markers! Choose a color palette that perhaps compliments the surrounding area/ decor, or you can keep is classic and simple and just use all white!  Sketch/ Gather Inspiration For Your Design: Start by sketching your design on paper to visualize how it will look on your windows. It would be just something real quick to help you with layout, and then you can reference other imagery while you work. You could consider more classic holiday imagery like snowflakes, ornaments, or festive landscape. You could also choose to paint some of the iconic holiday characters around this time of year- I have loved painting My favorite imagery has been painting a winter village. It's festive yet not specifically Christmas. I recently painted the windows at my local library and opted to paint a woodland creatures winter scene, as they had expressed they would like the leave the windows up throughout the winter, not just December. Here is a step by step tutorial for painting your own winter burrow scene from a recent blog post. You can find a link to my drawing guide for winter village drawing guide here, as well as my woodland creatures guide here.     Prepare the Windows: If your windows are notably dirty, it would probably be a good idea to clean them before painting! You also might want to lay down a drop cloth, or just a poster board along the window ledge to catch any paint drips.  Get Painting: With your design in mind and your windows prepped, it's time to bring your vision to life. If you want to begin with the end in mind- and would like to use a scraper to take the window paint off, you can add a pump or two of dishsoap to the paint for easy clean up! Now, just keep in mind, the more soap you add, the thinner/ more diluted your tempera paint will be. If you would like paint that is more opaque, then just use the tempera paint as it is. Gather a mixture of brushes to vary line thickness. I like having a few brushes of each size/ shape. I mostly end up using flat brushes to paint windows. I use large + medium flat brushes for painting in larger areas, and medium + smaller round brushes for smaller details.  Once you get painting you will discover what brushes work best for you! * A few other things to note about the painting process:  * If you are planning on making your windows visible from both sides of the window, you need to consider your process. If you use only one color (like the white for the winter village) you will be fine! Everything will be drawn in a monoline and perfect from all sides of the window. However, if you are painting a character or scene with more colors and wish to have a black outline, you will need to start with the black outline of your scene first. Typically when we paint, we block in shapes first and then add the black details on top so they are visible- but if you would like your windows to be viewed on both sides, you will need to: 1. Paint the black outline first. 2. Paint in the colors of the shapes as if you are working on a coloring book page. Meaning- do not paint over the black outlines, as this will move/ smudge the black paint and mix it into your colors. Only paint in the negative spaces in and around the black outline.Then, once evetything is painted in, you can add a bit more black on top to clean up/ darken your black outlines. Just be sure to wait for the paint to dry so it doesn't move/ you don't pick the paint back up. If you are going to blend colors, you will need to blend as you paint, and while the paint is wet! Once you let tempera paint dry on the window, if you try to paint over it, it will be darker, look splotchy and not look as clean as if it were all painted in one layer. Try to avoid layering as much as possible on windows, unless you are using acrylic paint and don't plan on making your windows viewable from both sides. Here is an artist, Lindsey Morales who paints windows for the season on business's windows. She uses interior acrylic house paint and paints a base layer of white first and then builds up her painting like she would on a canvas or mural- but note: her paintings aren't viewable from the inside of the building, as all you would see is the white base layer.   5. Share the Joy: Your painted windows are sure to bring smiles to those passing by. Share the joy with your community by taking photos and sharing them through your newsletter or social media. You can consider organizing a window-painting event with your students to make it a shared experience. There is no better feeling than knowing you are spreading joy for other's to enjoy- what a special feeling you can share with your students.  6. Clean-Up and Removal: When the holiday season comes to an end, remove the window paint using a damp cloth or window cleaner. Washable window paint is designed to come off easily, leaving your windows clean and ready for the next creative endeavor. If you used soap in your tempera paint you can use a large paint scraper to scrape the paint off the windows. You can also use a paint scraper to take to acrylic paint off, you just have to spray the paint with water first to loosen the paint. Here is the window scraper I recommend!  Painting your windows for the holidays is a wonderful way to express your creativity, spread festive cheer, and bring a touch of magic to your surroundings. Whether you're creating a winter wonderland or a scene straight from your imagination, let your holiday spirit shine through your painted windows to spread joy and love to others! Happy Creating!     

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Unlocking the Power of Arts Integration: Fueling Creativity and Learning

Unlocking the Power of Arts Integration: Fueling Creativity and Learning

Discover how arts integration transforms education, enriching the academic experience and boosting creativity. Explore the myriad benefits of infusing art into traditional subjects, from enhancing academic performance to fostering emotional intelligence. Unleash the potential of your students as they paint a brighter, more colorful path to knowledge through art-inspired learning.

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5 Reasons Why You Should Teach Monster Themed Art Lessons

5 Reasons Why You Should Teach Monster Themed Art Lessons

Do you want to see your students beam with excitement, burst with creativity, and create things that you never dreamed were possible? Well then you need to read this blog all about one subject that every art teacher needs to use in their art lessons: MONSTERS.

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Doggy Disguises: How to Draw Dogs in Halloween Costumes!

Doggy Disguises: How to Draw Dogs in Halloween Costumes!

Learn how to draw super cute dogs dressed up in different halloween costumes everyday throughout the month of October! These super simple, 5 minute drawing tutorials are the perfect daily art activity to draw for students of all ages!

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