Let’s Paint! Fun Color Theory for Children
This class combines painting with different media, including acrylics, watercolors and gouache. The focus of the class is on color theory, that will be taught through fun and engaging projects. Younger students (Gr. 2-5) will enjoy playing with colors and explore the possibilities of paints in creating an endless variety of shades. With older kids (Gr. 5-7) we’ll work more on technique and building forms with color. Both age groups will study works of different artists and enrich their art vocabulary.
A few words about the materials that may be used in the class (by the student’s choice):
Acrylic is well-known medium, which is ideal ideal for anyone who wants to paint – for children, adult beginners and experienced artists, who like to experiment with different techniques. These paints produce bright bold colors, and a wide range of textures and effects.
Gouache is a French word and often is dubbed as “opaque water color.” It was first used in medieval illuminated manuscripts and gained popularity among French and Italian painters in 18th century. It was most often used in creating decorative art or landscapes.
Painting with acrylics and gouache are very similar in terms of technique, color mixing and brushwork. The thick, opaque texture of both these mediums gives artists the ability to edit mistakes more easily.Gouache paints have more matte finish than acrylics, the colors are generally lighter, and what is most important – it is water-soluble when dry, while acrylics dry forever.
Watercolor is considered a difficult technique, but in reality for children’s painting it appears to be a lot of fun. It’s versatile, the colors are vibrant and transparent. Watercolors are easily mixable with gouache and, if needed, with acrylics. These paints are easily washable.
Students can work with any of the above-mentioned mediums, or even combine then, provided they are using a proper technique.
During the classes, I will explain different approaches to using paints and will show live demonstrations. We’ll do still life, landscapes, genre painting and botanicals, working both from observation and photos, on canvas or paper. Each lesson will start with short slideshow and some art history material.
Recommended list of supplies:
- For the start, you can have a basic set of paints – acrylics, gouache or watercolors. A 12-color set usually includes most of the colors you’ll need. Make sure you have while paint – for watercolor users it can be an additional tube of gouache or acrylic white.
- Synthetic paintbrushes. You can have a set, or buy separately. You will need brushes ##1, 2, 6, 10 and 12, both flat and round.
- Surface to paint on – heavyweight paper, poster paper or cardboard. Canvas or canvas paper is preferable for acrylics, but not necessary.
- Plastic palette to mix colors
- Very useful: color wheel, like the one here: The Color Wheel company
- Sketching materials and pieces of sketch paper.
- Paper towels or rags to wipe the paint.
- Recommended, but not absolutely necessary: tabletop easel or any other easel to work on.
- Also recommended: paper or plastic/vinyl tablecloth to protect the table.
All the materials mentioned above are available on Amazon, Blick Art Materials online store , or at any local art store.
Classes are offered in English.
Live class duration – 60 min via Zoom.
