Confidence in art doesn’t always come naturally to a child. For many young students, this self-belief is built through a broad range of art lessons in the classroom. Learning about famous artists is a key part of that growth, and helps develop a strong foundation in art history. If you’re a parent or teacher trying to instill confidence in a child, here’s why studying the masters is so important.
5 Ways That Studying Famous Artists Helps a Child’s Development
Practical, hands-on techniques are crucial for a child’s artistic development. But learning about famous artists offers many benefits that can continue to inspire kids throughout their lives.
1. Teach Artistic Language and Concepts
Lessons about famous artists such as Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec introduce children to terminology that applies to art—concepts like composition, perspective, color theory and so on. With these real-world examples of artistic concepts, a child can better understand them and become more confident when discussing them concerning their own work. Because famous artists are also usually placed within a particular timeframe and artistic movement, it can help children recognize that their own work is part of a larger creative tradition.
2. Normalize Mistakes as Growth
Great artists continuously revised their work and experimented with new ideas until they were satisfied. For instance, Pablo Picasso changed his style over the course of many decades, while Leonardo da Vinci was known for leaving works unfinished. With the recognition that mistakes and experimentation are simply part of the learning process, it’s one more way that middle school students will benefit from studying art history.
3. Encourage Working With Different Styles and Materials
Studying famous artists can inspire kids to broaden their horizons and use new styles and materials. Initially, a child might find some success with a style, such as basic representational art or abstract shapes. By learning about an artist like Andy Warhol, they may be inspired to use bold colors and designs. This process can boost their confidence as they become comfortable with new techniques and materials.
4. Show Progress Through Artist Journeys
Seeing how an artist develops from their initial work to later masterpieces demonstrates the importance of hard work and persistence. With such clear examples of creative development over time, a child can understand that improvement is indeed achievable with practice. For instance, you could show Michelangelo’s early sketches for the Sistine Chapel, then reveal the finished work.
5. Show Art as Personal Expression
As children learn about more artists, they will begin to understand that art is a way to express how they feel or see the world. Aside from practical improvements, kids benefit from art lessons as they explore their emotions and gain confidence in sharing their ideas. Rather than feeling restricted by the foundational concepts they are learning, they can use them to make creative choices and develop belief in self.
Learn About Famous Artists With Free Art Lessons
Golden Road Arts offers fun and engaging art lessons for elementary and middle school students. Our tutorials cover famous artists, instructional guides and other topics that support children’s creative development. Call (503) 718-7097 or browse free art lessons today.
