One of my favorite art teacher/bloggers, Bar Rucci of Art Bar Blog has written an amazing book about Process Art. I want to sing it’s praises and buy a copy for every parent, care giver, and teacher that I know…or don’t know! This kind of teaching needs to spread like wild fire! The book is called Art Workshop- for children. Throughout it, there are beautifully written essays by Betsy McKenna, a Reggio – inspired educator. The two writers come together and compliment one another so beautifully. Why am I in love with this book? So many reasons, but the main reason is the authors’ love and focus on Process Art. The book consists of 27 art workshops, each describing an art project that Barbara had her class do. She talks about the process, observations, variations to take the projects further…but ultimately the children make the project their own. There is no right or wrong, just the freedom and encouragement to create. With every challenge they may come across, they are growing and becoming the creative thinkers that we need in this world.
I tried one of the book projects out with my Wee Warhols. We did Workshop 17- Cardboard Collage Faces. It was so interesting to see how different everyone’s collage faces turned out. Each one an original! Here is a sneak peek:
Art Workshop for Children is a rich and inspiring resource for parents, teachers, and caregivers. As an art educator and parent myself, it is the book I wish I had written. Bar and Betsy are a perfectly paired duo and their book is filled with beautiful process art invitations, expert tips, and insightful advice. On every page you can feel their love for children and teaching with a gentle hand. It’s all about the child and exploration and how — through self-expression and critical thinking — children become creative thinkers. It’s about the process and not the product. Bar states, “Let’s raise creative thinkers who explore their world, express their dreams, embrace differences, and never lose touch with their inner artist.” Children are the most curious little people who ask questions like “Why is the sky blue?”. That curiosity causes creativity. We need to try not to lose that as we become “grown ups”. Like Pablo Picasso said, “ All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” I can not wait to try out all of Bar’s workshops with my Wee Warhols. Please get your copy of Art Workshop HERE .
