Since I never did any formal art program before this year, I started both my children in ArtPac 1 from Rod and Staff. They've enjoyed the projects I chose for them. I didn't go in order because some things were too "young" for my 3rd grader or out of season for when we'd be doing them. They learned different techniques for coloring, shading, practice cutting with scissors better, collage and silhouette to name a few. They were pleased with the end results and wouldn't have thought of adding to their artwork in the way they were instructed. I posted a few on my refrigerator throughout the year and visitors always commented on how neat and unique they were. We'll be continuing with this curriculum next year and adding extras as we find them.

We also used some books from Usborne. Very cute and simple but beyond stick figures, we used I can draw people and I can draw animals. We're just beginning to use the Usborne Complete Book of Art ideas. I think this may carry us through the "I'm bored!" summer days ahead.

My children also loved when I found books on artists tied to the period of history we were learning. Our favorites are by Mike Venezia, Getting to Know the World's Greatest Artists. I bought a few at our library's yearly sale and the rest we checked out from the library. His illustrations make learning about history fun and funny.

A child-led addition was ArtLab Clay Studio. My children accompanied me to the Joseph-Beth Kids' Book Blowout sale. It was great. My daughter found the clay kit and I immediately knew it was a great find. It retails for about $20, but with the sale and my teacher discount I only paid $7.60. It includes 4 posable armatures (kind of like skeletons), high quality sculpting clay, and an instruction book. The nice thing is they can reuse the clay and remake creatures for as long as they want. (Since it was on special sale at Jo-Beth, it's not available there now, but it's available through various sellers online.)

The book alone would have been worth the price. It included information on sculpting and bits about the history of it as well. Since I'm not an art major, I've never heard the terms armature, additive sculpting, or subtractive sculpting. Once again, I learned something new with my children and sounded like I knew what I was talking about!

My son is loving it! He's diligently working on his chameleon. Arrggh! If I ever learn how to post pictures in my blog I'll add their creations in this one later.

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Posted by westward

We're starting an art unit to finish off the school year! I love the "...Greatest Artist" series, too!! My kids are so excited. When I told them our last two week would be an artist unit, the celebrated thinking they wouldn't have to learn anything else. Boy, are they in for a surprise! ;)

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Posted by abbycamlars

Thanks Nora for praying for me, all is well and I know the Lord just needed to get my attention on some matters. Sherry

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Posted by melissal89

We love Mike Venezia's books as well! Sounds like you've are doing a great job with your children's art curriculum. Thanks for sharing!

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Posted by nancysnook

Hope you had a nice time at the "sale" yesterday at co-op. I've got some of the I Can Draw books you can have! Your guys will love them...probably hubby too...LOL

Nancy

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/nancysnook/523536/

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Posted by Anonymous

Love the new look - Awesome. My kind colors - pink and purple. Love ya, Cathy

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Posted by pottershand

We bought the same clay set at the sale! The girls have really enjoyed playing with it as well. Unfortunately when we got home our kit was missing the book.

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