Art Talk

Canvas Paintings: You will need acrylic paint, plastic, masking tape, large paint brushes and/or sponge brushes, and a canvas. Talk to your child about Abstract art and how each viewer can "see" something different. Abstract art doesn't have to "be" anything. Begin by sticking ripped pieces of masking tape on the canvas. The tape will resist the paint keeping some areas white. Next, begin painting by adding a little water to one color. Use that color to paint a "wash" on the canvas. Next, lay plastic on top of the areas you would like to keep of the first color. The plastic will resist the next color and will create a cool texture. (Using a hair dryer can save colors from becoming muddy) Paint the next color in different areas. Repeat laying plastic on the areas you want to keep. Children can continue adding to their painting by spattering (tapping your brush with your finger), finger painting, and running a plastic fork through the paint. Your child can then remove the plastic and the tape. Finally, your child can paint the white shapes with color. You should have a surprisingly beautiful picture from any aged child!