Hello! It’s been a while. I have been working so much on The Creativity Project that it’s been hard to find the time to write over here on Art Bar. But I have things to share! As you know, I have been facilitating open-studio classes at our local library over the past year (I’ve written…
liquid watercolor
Watercolor House Garland
This house garland can be painted in endless ways. Here I used some white crayon resist, watercolor, and a splash of gold tempera paint. Set this out for a group of children and let them explore the resist technique used when mixing crayon and watercolor. You could make these in a classroom, or at home…
16 Liquid Watercolor Art Experiences
Liquid watercolors have become one of my favorite art materials. They are not as convenient as regular palette watercolors, which we use more often just because they don’t require as much set-up or clean-up, but they are just so beautiful to paint with. The colors are very rich and vibrant, and you can cover large areas…
Solar System Mixed-Media Art with Kids
To celebrate Earth Day this year, which falls on April 22nd, I decided to do this very process-oriented solar system mixed-media art project with my campers! It is truly perfect for every age, from preschoolers to middle schoolers. It is a two day process and an exploration of circular shapes, painting with droppers, and deep…
Wooden Sculpture Prompt: Imaginary Playgrounds
One of my favorite process art experiences for my art students is setting out wooden pieces and letting them make sculptures. On this day, I gave them the prompt to make imaginary playgrounds. I love what they created so much! How cool would these be if they were life-sized? I think all playgrounds should be…
Cinco de Mayo Garland from Coffee Filters
If you’ve never used coffee filters for crafts before, now would be the time to start! These colorful and super festive “Papel Picado” garlands for Cinco de Mayo were made by 8 & 9-year olds and would be the perfect craft for teens. And of course, grown-ups. I loved making them! It felt like a Spring version…
Watercolor Fabric Banners
Todays post comes to you from Samara Caughey who runs a children’s art studio in LA called Purple Twig. I have written – and gushed – about Samara before. You can read my interview with her here. She is one of the most creative and imaginative people I know. She is a constant source of inspiration…
Toothbrush Easter Eggs
Have you ever tried painting eggs with a toothbrush? When I set out this egg painting invitation, I knew the kids would be excited! When they got to art class, I clicked the camera to video mode and was able to capture this project in action. The kids were in such flow, so engaged with…
Dip-Dyed Pumpkin Garland
I love when the vision I have in my mind’s eye comes to fruition. It never really happens all that much, I have to admit. I start many projects that I end up throwing away. It’s true! But I lucked out this time. I wanted to make a seasonal garland that was simple and light…
