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Lesson Plans


The Importance of Art and Creative Expression

From: Laura McCoy (Laura_McCoy.ca)
Date: Thu Apr 06 2000 - 15:51:52 PDT

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    I saw this on my Teacher's Federation newsgroup and thought it might be of
    interest, especially to those who are looking for information about the
    importance of art education.

    Laura

    VOICES FOR CHILDREN

    Issue 18
    The Importance of Art and Creative Expression
     
    Article 31 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child “recognizes the
    right of the child to rest and leisure, to engage in play and recreational
    activities appropriate to the age of the child and to participate freely
    in cultural life and the arts”. The Convention states that governments
    should actively promote this right as well as encourage the provision of
    appropriate and equal opportunities for cultural, artistic, recreational
    and leisure activity.
    In the Toronto Children’s Charter Article 6 states “all Toronto children
    shall be entitled to participate in recreational and leisure activities,
    in the form of play, creative expression and skill development
    opportunities.

    "Imagination is more important than knowledge." A.Einstein

    Lowenfield, a noted art educator, identified the different stages of
    artistic development.

    Ages 2 – 4 years – the scribbling stage is characterized by up and down
    movement, with colour not being an important choice, and the names of the
    drawings represent the way the child sees the drawing. The experience is
    personal and expression follows. The drawings are often characterized by
    the big head of the figures.

    Ages 4 – 6 years – the preschematic stage as “creative consciousness” in
    which the scribbles are controlled and have an identity with a name. Parts
    of the drawing maybe exaggerated with the use of unreal colour and size.

    Ages 7 – 9 years – the schematic stage as a representation with no
    intention of exhibiting an experience. There is more realism, the child is
    part of the portrayed environment and there is a use of symbols.

    Ages 9 – 11 years, the gang stage is a connection with reality and the
    child begins to draw what he/she sees.
    Do not draw for the child. When an adult draws for a child, the child is
    less likely to be satisfied with his/her own drawings because the child
    feels the adult’s drawing must be the correct one. This may reduce
    self-confidence and increase frustration as well as reduce a child’s
    willingness to take risks.

    Do not solely rely on the use of colouring books. They limit the
    imagination and the way a child communicates through art.

    Use well-illustrated books when reading to children. Having a reference
    such as richly illustrated picture books provides a source of imagination
    for the child and a point for exploration between child and adult.
    Keep it simple, paper and crayons or markers can bring out the imagination
    by allowing a child maximum opportunity for free expression.
    Do give approval. Encourage your child to talk about the drawing as this
    strengthens verbal and cognitive growth.

    Do not judge the end product, remember it is the process of creating which
    is important for the child.
    Do not compare your child’s work with another. Each child has a unique way
    of expressing him or herself, it is his or her own personal language or
    fingerprint.
    Do display your child’s art work. This builds self-esteem and confidence.
    A place on the fridge or bulletin board can be easy updated with new work.
    Invite your child to participate in the display and place at least some
    work at the child’s eye level.
    KIDZ DRAW www.kidzdraw.com
     
    Is an art web site for children ages 3 –10+. It is a place to draw, create
    and have fun! Activities are geared for specific age groups taking into
    account developmental stages as well as creative interests. There are
    interviews, art projects, art tips, online art gallery where children can
    post their art and much more.
    Kidzdraw is produced by Ariande Prooductions with Carol Mark.

    For more information you can contact Carol Mark at ariaprod

    Must Reads
     
    Kidz Draw
    www.kidzdraw.com

    Artists for Kids
    www.artists4kids.com

    International Children’s Art Foundation
    http://www.icaf.org/why.htm

    How Art Activities Can Be Used To Enhance the Education of Young Children
    Hale, Judy; Roy, Joyce, 1996
    ERIC_NO: ED394937 

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