The elements of art are the building blocks used by artists to create a work of art. Knowledge of the elements of art allows children to get more out of looking at and creating art.
This article will explain the elements of art and provide ideas to engage young children in creating art using the elements.
1 – The Key Elements of Art
The key elements of art are the foundations upon which successful works of art can be built. These elements apply to any kind of art forms, including sculpture, painting, drawing, photography, and design. There are seven elements of art which are often presented as a group: line, shape, color, texture, form, value, and space.
Line is a mark made on a surface which can range from thick to thin, smooth to jagged. Lines of different width, length, texture and direction can lead a viewer’s eye to any number of visual points.
Shape is an area which is defined by a particular line or borders. It can be two-dimensional, as with a flat painting or drawing, or three-dimensional, as with a sculpture.
Shape also includes different parts of an object, such as triangles, squares, rectangles, and circles, which can be combined to make a whole. Color is a combination of hues, tints, shades, or tones. It is used to add vibrant visual appeal, or to make a statement.
Texture is the way a surface feels to the touch, or the way a surface reflects light. It can be rough, smooth, fuzzy, hard, or soft. Form is a real three-dimensional shape including width, depth, and height.
Value is the range of lightness and darkness in an artwork which creates dimension and visual interest. And space is the area or a setting in which an object or design resides.
It provides a sense of depth, breadth, and distance within a work of art.
2 – Teaching the Elements of Art to Kids
Teaching the elements of art to kids is an important part of their creative development. The best way to teach the elements of art to children is with simple and engaging activities.
Art projects involving these simple techniques are readily available online, in books, and through example. One way of teaching the elements of art to children is through the use of books. Storybooks provide an opportunity to explore the many elements of art.
Children can learn about colors, textures, shapes, forms and lines by looking at illustrations and stories. Other books, usually including cardboard and paper, can be used to build models and to demonstrate the concept of three-dimensionality and form. Additionally, art books display creations from all different kinds of artists.
Looking at the work of other artists can help children see a variety of examples of the elements of art. Another way to teach the elements of art to children is to encourage them to create their own artwork.
Art projects utilizing the elements of art enable children to gain a basic understanding of visual language and to express themselves through art. Start with a simple project, such as coloring on a blank piece of paper. Introduce children to basic colors and textures, and then gradually progress to more complex projects.
3 – Tips for Engaging Kids with Art Activities
Engaging kids with art activities is essential to help them learn the elements of art. Here are some tips to make art activities fun and creative for kids.
Start by giving children art supplies that are age-appropriate. Young children may prefer large crayons and markers, while older children may be up for pastels and paints. Avoid hand-me-downs or art supplies that are terribly worn.
Another tip for engaging kids in art activities is to let them express themselves freely. Put away the eraser and let children experiment with colors, lines, and shapes as they explore their creativity. Avoid scolding or criticism; instead, provide constructive feedback.
Make sure to set the atmosphere for art activities. Let children draw in an open, airy space where they can make a mess and experiment.
Hang up artwork in a designated space, such as a hallway or the fridge, to create a sense of pride for your children’s work.
Conclusion
Teaching the elements of art to kids is beneficial for children to gain a basic understanding of visual language and to express themselves through art. Art activities utilizing the elements of art enable children to explore their creativity and make creative works of art.
With simple and engaging activities, as well as age-appropriate art supplies, kids can gain an understanding of visual language and create beautiful pieces of art.