
Making art accessible to children doesn’t need to be a complicated process. Whether in a classroom or at home, children’s art lessons can easily introduce the key aspects of various artistic movements. With simple materials and the right guidance, students can gain an appreciation of different art styles across time periods and cultures. Let’s look at the best techniques to help.
Best Techniques for Teaching Children About Art Styles
Understanding how to present different art styles to children is foundational to successful art education. The following methods can help make art more approachable for young students.
Show the Differences Between Art Styles
Comparing contrasting art styles side by side helps children understand their distinct features. Start by displaying a realistic artwork next to an abstract piece, then encourage students to discuss the differences in shapes, subjects and colors. You can repeat this with varying styles to help children begin to notice significant differences in artwork.
Incorporate Technology Into Art Lessons
Online art lessons offer a simple introduction to different styles of art. As we have discussed previously, there are many advantages to introducing children to art at an early age. However, not every family has a gallery nearby. By using resources like the free lessons from Golden Road Arts and virtual museums, children can easily learn about art movements and techniques from home.
Use Hands-On Art Lessons
While studying examples of art styles is important, having children try the techniques themselves helps reinforce key elements. A hands-on art project could involve practicing one specific method that defines a movement, such as the bold brushstrokes used in impressionism.
Match the Art Styles With the Appropriate Age Group
While all art styles can be adapted for different ages, some are naturally more accessible to certain age groups. As we know, young elementary students often enjoy the bright colors of pop art. As children get older, they can try more complex styles like impressionism and cubism.
Develop Projects Based on Specific Art Styles
Introducing an art style over several sessions during the week is a great way to build a deep understanding. For example, you could demonstrate impressionism by starting with light observation and color mixing. Next, you can progress to short brushstroke techniques and observations of light and shadow. And by the end of the week, a child could create a recognizable impressionist work.
Give Context by Discussing the History of an Art Style
The cultural and historical events of a time period shape the individual artists of that time and influence how an art style develops. When you teach art in the classroom or at home it can be helpful to include an overview of artists (like Picasso, Monet and da Vinci, for example), and the environments in which they worked.
Learn New Art Styles With Our Free Online Lessons
Golden Road Arts helps teachers and parents teach children about different art styles with our free online tutorials. Browse our library of videos, guides and articles for unique and creative lessons. View our free art lessons.