What better way to make your house feel like home than by using your children’s artwork? I’m not just talking about crafts that end up on the refrigerator here. I mean actual art that you want to display. Art that wows your friends. Art that is frame-worthy. Read on and learn how…
I recently did a painting project with my 19-month-old daughter, Sloan, and we had a blast. I put a onesie on her that I wasn’t too attached to, threw down an old sheet (so we could keep our mess somewhat contained), and we created our own Jackson Pollack.
I grabbed some canvases and let her pick out about five or six colors. A little tip: Stay away from using neutral colors, as it will make everything turn to one muddy tone. Lay out brushes, paint and palette and let your little one paint away. No need for water until it’s time to clean up; remember it’s abstract.
As the parent, you may have in mind what you want it to look like, but let your little ones express their own creativity. They will be so proud of their work! If your child is older and can follow directions, set up a still life for them to draw or paint using a vase of flowers or a bowl of fruit. Or better yet, take everything outside and let them paint their own landscape “en plein air” as Monet and other great impressionist would do. Once your little one has finished her masterpiece, give her a Sharpie (yes ,I gave my 19-month-old a Sharpie), so she can sign her name at the bottom of the canvas and date it. Voila, you have a masterpiece you will treasure for years to come.
Title: Sloan’s 1st Masterpiece
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Age: 19 months
Calhoun resident Robin Proffitt is an artist, educator, and–most proudly!–mom of toddler, Sloan.
Tagged: family, children, parenting, art, projects, creative, activities, ideas
Dang. 19 months and she’s already better than I am!