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All children create art. Whether it’s early crayon scribbles or something from the more sophisticated stick-people school, children can create their own world with just a few ingredients. It’s a trait they share in common with some of the greatest artists in history. Which is all the more reason to check out these books and introduce your budding artist to some of her predecessors. For teething artists, Julie Merberg and Suzanne Bober have written two excellent board books, Sunday With Seurat and Sharing With Renoir (©2005, Chronicle). Using clever, rhyming text, Merberg and Bober bring Seurat’s and Renoir’s works to life for toddlers. These sturdy books are perfect for even the youngest art appreciator to enjoy. If your child is more likely to drift off on a flight of fancy than to get down and dirty with a paint set, Katie’s Sunday Afternoon by James Mayhew (©2005, Scholastic) is a good escape. Stepping into a Seurat to take a swim while her Grandma naps in the art museum on a hot day, Katie begins an imaginative quest to cool off through five different Pointillist paintings. The colorful and educational illustrations take readers on a whimsical ride, and children will love sharing Katie’s adventure. For a slightly more serious aficionado, check out Frida by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Ana Juan (©2002, Scholastic). With illustrations that evoke the spirit of Frida Kahlo’s artwork, this book is a beautiful way to introduce children to her work. It may provoke interesting discussions with school-age children, and younger children will find something visually stunning and different to enjoy on each page, making this truly a book for the whole family. It’s also available in a Spanish language edition. For school-age children, homeschooling parents, and everyone in between, Chicago Review Press has a series of art activity books full of interesting things to do and learn. Some of their titles include: Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, Monet and the Impressionists for Kids, Salvador Dali and the Surrealists, and Leonardo da Vinci for Kids. All of the books include relevant art activities, full color reproductions, and an abundance of historical information. This is a great series for older children interested in taking a hands-on approach to learning about their favorite artists, or for adults looking to play. These are only a few titles in the vast catalog of books on art and artists available to children. Use these books as a jumping-off place for artistic expression in your family. Encourage your children to express themselves using different forms of art, and don’t forget to participate! |
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