Exploring Artists and Artworks
To develop appreciation of art and learn about diverse artists.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Expressive Arts & Design
- Learning area: Expressive Arts and Design
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Talks about artworks they have seen
- Responds to art with opinions and observations
- Uses artists' work as inspiration
- Understands that artists have different styles
Materials
- Prints and reproductions of diverse artworks
- Books about artists
- Art materials to respond to artworks
- Videos about artists and their work
Instructions
Choose diverse artists to explore—different cultures, genders, time periods, and styles. 'This painting is by Hokusai, an artist from Japan who lived a long time ago. Look at this wave!'
Encourage children to respond to art. 'How does this painting make you feel? What do you notice? What do you wonder about?' Value all responses without 'right answers.'
Provide context about artists' lives. 'Frida Kahlo painted pictures of herself because she spent a lot of time alone. She included things that were important to her—flowers, animals, bright colours.'
Use artworks as inspiration, not templates. 'We've looked at how Kandinsky used shapes and colours. Now you can create your own artwork with shapes and colours. What will yours look like?'
Make connections to children's own art. 'I can see you've used lots of red like the artist we looked at! Tell me about your painting.' Help children see themselves as artists.
Create a classroom art gallery. 'Let's display your artwork like a real art gallery! We need labels that tell people about each picture.' Treat children's work with the same respect as famous artists'.