I want to tell you about “The Art Wall.” It is a place in our home where an artist is showcased for a period of time. Several major works are placed on the wall in the form of postcards or small posters, the titles of the works placed underneath them, and information about the artist put up as well. Most times the postcards will tell you what medium the artist worked in — oils, water colors, etc. That is placed on the wall as well.
This month’s artist is John William Waterhouse.
The works included are:
- Gather Ye Rosebuds While Ye May
- Miranda, The Tempest
- Study from La Belle Dame Sans Merci
- The Awakening of Adonis
The benefits of doing this are many. Not only do the children learn to recognize the style of the artist being studied, but they place that person on their own mental timeline. In addition, many paintings lead into studies of various literary works and historical events. For example, this particular set of works leads to studies of Greek mythology, John Keats, William Shakespeare, and Robert Herrick and the meaning of carpe diem.
I am always on the lookout for art-themed postcards at thrift stores, but other places to look are book stores, print and poster shops, museums, art galleries, and little gift shops. They are usually only 75 cents to 3 dollars apiece.
Have fun if you decide to create your own art wall!
Lynn
for you to leave a comment, but you can also e-mail me at lynn AT thehealthyhomeschool.com
Lynn,
I love this idea!
Michele
What a great idea! I must copy you on this!
Hannah
Thanks. It is something we enjoy doing. My youngest has memorized the name of this artist already, but no other data from this study…yet.
Lynn
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