Age Range: 5-12 (Designed for kids, but the activities and information will appeal to people of all ages. Non-readers will need assistance.)
ClickScholar Cie recommended The National Gallery of Art's website for kids that offers free interactive art projects that inspire creativity while providing engaging lessons in art history.
When you get to the site you'll see a menu of possibilities that includes:
*Faces & Places - This exploration of American folk art, uses the NGA art collection for inspiration. Kids create portraits and construct panoramic landscapes that include folk music and animations.
*Brushster - Make your own abstract art! Experiment with tools to create sophisticated non-representational paintings.
*Photo Op - Get familiar with digital photography and image editing. As explained at the website, "Use the virtual camera to snap pictures, then experiment with the easy-to-use photo editing tools to give your art a whole new look. The special effects palette, colorizing options, collage tools, warps, and mirrors will transform your photographs."
*NGAkids Still Life - Mix everyday objects with those borrowed from art in the NGA collection to create your own still life masterpiece.
*Dutch Doll House - Explore an interactive doll house based on the paintings of well-known 17th-century Dutch artists. Kids can "mix and match colorful characters, create decorative objects, and explore the kitchen, living quarters, artist's studio, and courtyard."
*NGAkids Jungle - Inspired by the art of Henri Rousseau, this activity allows kids to make a jungle scene filled with tigers, monkeys, and other exotic creatures.
Use the "Paintbox" option to make a mini-painting online, try out the "Collage Machine," or use the latest "Flow" tech-tools to create artwork that moves!
