Art Classes: Back To The Basics

Art Lessons Don't Have to Be Complicated Even For Homeschool Parents

Mar 15, 2008 Karrie Emms

A look at some basic yet fun and educational art lessons, which can be enjoyed by homeschoolers and their teachers.

Art class is likely one of the most enjoyable classes to teach a homeschooler and yet at times topics and projects may escape the mind of even the most enthusiastic homeschooling parent. It may be surprising that many of the best art sessions are simple, fast and fun. The beauty of a homeschool art lesson is that the world is at the students disposal. There are no limits to creativity and if componants are missing the corner store or the backyard are right there. Here are two very simple and yet fun activities to be enjoyed during art class.

Inkblots: What Do You See?

A simple, fun and revealing art exercise, inkblots can reveal an artistic eye where there may not appear to be one. The activity is inexpensive; simple enough for students of mixed ages to do together and through discussion and presentation of the finished product also focuses on students’ speech skills.

1. Create ten inkblots on separate sheets of 8.5” X11” white paper by dropping black India ink onto the paper using an eyedropper and allow them to dry.
2. Once dry, photocopy the inkblots (1 of each for all people completing the activity and maybe a few extras)
3. To complete the project, do not allow the participants to see the blots until they are ready to be completed.
4. Sit the participants in separate areas and hand out the inkblots one at a time and instruct them to turn the blot into a drawing according to what they see in it.
5. Once each participant has completed one picture from each inkblot, sit together and see if you can guess each other’s picture.
6. Compare what each person saw in his inkblot, students will be amazed at the results and the different drawings.
7. Inkblots can be displayed in sets to illustrate the different outcomes.

Watercolor Fridge Magnets

Again this is a simple yet very attractive art project best suited to children ages 8 and up (can be attempted by younger children as well). Materials needed include watercolor brushes, watercolor paints, watercolor paper, strip magnets, white glue and shellac spray.

1. Give each child a piece of watercolor paper cut in a strip about 10 inches long and 3.5 inches high.
2. Get each child to paint a basic watercolor landscape on her piece of paper.
3. Once the scene is dry cut it into three or four sections about 2.5 inches wide.
4. Have her sign her masterpiece.
5. Lay the cards flat and seal them with Shellac.
6. Once dry turn the pictures over and glue a magnet to each side of the card.
7. Hang the masterpieces on the fridge and enjoy!

Where to Find More Art Ideas

Many craft stores have great ideas and handouts (often for free) that offer step-by-step instructions and material lists. Project ideas may also be found on thousands of websites and in various books on sale at local bookstores.

Just remember whatever the project, allow your child creative freedom and license, you may be surprised at what he comes up with -- and don’t be afraid to try your own hand at the project!

The copyright of the article Art Classes: Back To The Basics in Homeschooling is owned by Karrie Emms. Permission to republish Art Classes: Back To The Basics in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

A Sample of An Inkblot Drawing With Color Added

A Basic Black and White Inkblot Drawing