Summer Inspiration

smallSHOP summer lessons are in full swing. 

Paul Klee is inspiring us with his color palette.

We think he is RAD.

HIP TO BE SQUARE

What could be better than a perfect colored square?

100's of perfectly colored squares, of course. 

For this lesson we discussed transparency, overlapping colors to make new ones and texture. Using a wood block and a canvas as the surface to build on, the young artists experimented with colors and shapes. In addition to them having a wonderful time, the finished pieces have a modern controlled feel. Here at smallSHOP we say, "yes, please" to squares in all colors. 

It is hard to speak about squares without giving a "what's up" to the king of art geometry Piet Mondrian. While thinking of smallSHOP and our talented little artists, I remembered back to a fun "one day" project that incorporated patterns inspired by Piet Mondiran. We combined his technique with imaginative characters. After drawing, painting and choosing a solid background we came up with these fun images created by 2nd Grade students. 

a whole LOTTA pattern

Never disappoints.

Patterns are fundamental in art making. Finding inspiration is essential. I have thumbed through her books, used her stencils and been inspired to create my own interpretations. There are printing projects for all ages and levels. Like a potato print, watch the tutorial here, to block printing and silkscreening.

Artists of all ages enjoy printmaking. These are techniques we use in our smallShop classes.