Introducing Kids to Visual Arts

 “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” - Pablo Picasso

Growing up around art in its various forms can have a significant impact on a child's development. Studies have shown that children who are exposed to and participate in the arts are better equipped to express themselves, both verbally and non-verbally, and have stronger language, motor, and decision-making skills. Plus, children who are involved in the arts tend to perform better in other school subjects, as creativity can be a valuable tool in problem-solving and critical thinking.

As kids get older, the benefits of creativity extend beyond the classroom. Jobs in diverse fields, from science and technology to business and healthcare, need individuals who can think outside the box and bring fresh ideas to the table. Creativity is a skill that can be learned and nurtured from a young age, making it an asset in a multitude of job prospects, not just in the arts and creative industries.

In today's world, where schools are under pressure to meet specific curriculum demands, it is crucial to foster creativity at home. Making art is a fantastic way for kids to explore their creativity and express themselves in a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment. It's especially helpful for children who may find it challenging to articulate their ideas and emotions verbally. By encouraging children to draw, paint, write, or play music, you're helping them find their unique voice and perspective.

Taking art classes or going to museums with your family are both great ways to introduce kids to new types of art. But, you can also encourage creativity at home by giving your kids art supplies, like a sketchbook, pencils, or paint, and encouraging them to create. By nurturing creativity in your kids, you're not just helping them learn important skills and ways of thinking, you're also giving them a fun and healthy way to express themselves!

VISUAL INQUIRY 

Visual Inquiry is a teaching method that involves the use of generic images to initiate conversations, encourage creativity, and stimulate critical thinking. It's a technique that can be particularly useful when discussing art with children. 

The key to discussing art with children is to let them lead the conversation. Instead of telling them what you think, it's much more effective to ask open-ended questions that help them think and share their own observations. Some examples of these types of questions are: "What do you notice?", "Can you tell me more about that?", and "Does this remind you of anything?". These kinds of questions encourage children to develop a dialogue, ask follow-ups, and use their own knowledge to interpret the artwork.

Visual Inquiry is a fantastic way to help children connect with what they're seeing and feel more confident in expressing their thoughts and ideas. When kids take the lead, they naturally find stories and meaning in the artwork, which stimulates their imaginations and critical thinking skills. It's important to remember that there are no right or wrong answers when using this method - it's all about encouraging creativity and empowering children to think for themselves. So next time you're looking at art with a child, try using Visual Inquiry to get the conversation going! You'll be amazed at what they come up with.

CONTEMPO

Contemporary art can provide children with a deeper understanding of current events in a way that is both engaging and meaningful. The beauty of contemporary art lies in its ability to reflect the time we live in, making it more relatable and accessible to children. While historical artworks may seem significant, they can be challenging for children to connect with and understand.

Introducing children to the work of living artists can be an excellent way to help them form a more profound connection with the art. You can do this by taking them to art exhibitions or galleries or by showing them artists' work online. Through this process, children can explore the unique perspectives and creative processes of contemporary artists, which can be a confidence-building exercise.

By learning about contemporary art, children can learn to appreciate the diversity of cultures and develop a greater appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the world around them. This, in turn, can help them become more empathetic and engaged members of their communities.

UNIQUE

When it comes to exposing children to art, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. You don't have to limit yourself to what's typically considered "kid-friendly" imagery. Instead, it's important to take into account the child's age, background, and interests to find something that will captivate their imagination. You might even want to showcase art made from unconventional materials or objects that they're already familiar with. Don't be afraid to venture beyond traditional paintings and sculptures to introduce children to art that speaks to them.

How did you introduce your kid(s) to the art world?