My loose goal is to do one art project with the kids every week. Some weeks are better than others, and last week ended with Nick and Madeline reminding me that we hadn’t done anything in awhile.
After a few minutes of rummaging in my desk drawers, I came up with plain white art paper and a few trays of watercolor paint. I’ve learned over the past year or so that it’s better that each of them has their own watercolor tray. Some are better at cleaning their brushes than others.
Using plain masking tape, I sectioned off the art paper into six smaller squares. Although I made the sections neat, you could certainly make haphazard lines for a completely different (and fun!) effect too.
I gave them the paint, brushes, and water dishes and told them to get creative. Although they both love art, they are very different when it comes to tackling the projects. Nick critiques his work very mightily and always worries about it being perfect. I always remind him that this is art, “there is no perfect!” Madeline is always happy with her end result, needs little direction, and takes it super seriously. She can literally spend hours painting one small 8×10 piece of paper, getting it just right.
Nick went with more lighter shades and Madeline went with a darker, less blended approach. I taught them both how to make the colors lighter or darker, and to use a paper towel to dab at the pools when they wanted different effects, taking some paint away and creating slight patterns.
And this time, we tried something new. While the paint is still wet, sprinkle a little salt on it and watch what happens. This was a technique they hadn’t tried before, and they were pretty stoked to see how the salt changed their painting.
An hour-long project, supplies we had on hand, and new masterpieces to hang in our little art gallery.
Want more artistic inspiration?
Make your own Crayola crayon wax melting like we did here.
Super simple rainbow art right here (ours are still hanging up and totally brighten up their space).
And for even MORE inspiration, follow my craft board on Pinterest right here.
June 12, 2012 – Bonus Photo
Tonight we had company for dinner and more art. This masterpiece was created by a not-quite-three year old. Totally frameable, if you ask me.
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The one thing I wish my mom had done with us was more art projects and its something I definitely hope to do with my future kids! I hope pinterest is still around then so I can stalk you for inspiration :P
Dude. If Pinterest folds, I will cry.
how beautifully the children have done the salt art..amazing!! loved the art projects..