Monday, July 25, 2016

Bringing "Messy" Art Outdoors

Painting is a fun and fundamental part of childhood, but let's face it--it gets messy! From the time he was very small (as in, just big enough to sit up independently), we've brought painting outdoors for some artistic fun and fresh air. One benefit to summer art adventures outside is the easier cleanup and instant access to water! We have some messy and colorful fun, do a quick primary wipe-down, leave finished work to dry in the sun and hit the pool or sprinkler. You can bring out a tarp to work on, set paper on the sidewalk/pavement, bring out an easel or even work directly on natural items (I've seen some amazing outdoor sculptures done on wood/lumber remnants). Here's a glimpse of some of our outdoor painting activities:

When he was just old enough to sit up, we started bringing paint outside inside a large plastic bin. The back of the bin also provided extra support so he could go wild and crazy with the paints and not risk flopping over in the process! 
We had the kiddie pool already filled and ready for when he was done...



We also enjoy bringing story times and extension activities outdoors. Here's some fun we had with Leo Lionni's little blue and little yellow using squeeze condiment bottles with slightly watered down yellow and blue tempera paints



For his 2nd birthday, I set up a "birthday mural" for him to romp and stomp on. It kind of turned into a full body experience (slightly resembling the world's messiest slip and slide)...



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