This
fun book is a lively introduction for children to the world
of art. Rather than being a static look at pictures it involves
the child in having a go, and seeing what fun it is. It goes
beyond paintings to encompass sculptures and installations;
quite a few of the artists covered are modern too which adds
relevance. Looking back to my own experiences with learning
about art history as a child I remember thinking that fine
art was obviously something people used to do in the past.
This is certainly an improvement upon that and anybody using
this book will see that art is alive and well.
I
say using it rather than reading it because this is a very
practical book. When everything in it has been completed the
book will cease to exist; very tidy and good for the environment!
Printed on bright white card models can be pressed or cut
out, colored in and constructed. Make a color wheel, engage
in practical demonstrations of perspective, learn about cave
paintings and moai, and make a spin picture, an endless landscape
and a plinth to display your 3D work on. Artists covered go
beyond the Old Masters and Europe to encompass Hokusai, Frida
Kahlo and Jose Posada. Also included are Da Vinci, Munch,
Mondrian, van Gogh and Picasso but the emphasis is very much
on diversity, and also variety. Art can be a serious painting,
but it can also be a fun action one, street art, installation,
abstract, or involve optical illusion. In short it is anything
but dead and dusty, and will prove to any child that art is
not only very alive, but anybody can join in. An enjoyable
and refreshing look at art that will appeal to a lot of children.
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