Art with Everyday Things

April 1, 2018

Gr 2-5-The two-to-four-step art projects in these titles introduce cool techniques most kids will benefit from-printing with plastic wrap or adding soap or salt to vary texture. The suggestion to use templates, collage, and cut-and-assemble shapes relieves some of the pressure that can come with free-form drawing and painting. Printing and Stamping is a standout selection for the way it encourages users to examine familiar objects and experiment with the impressions each one might make. Scrap Paper reveals the artistic potential in patterned paper-a cognitive shift that can be a minor revelation for young people. Likewise, Hands trains readers to extrapolate meaning or see abstract shapes as building blocks to representational content. Cheerful colors and a vibrant graphic border tie the titles together visually. VERDICT Encourage budding artists to look at shapes and materials in new ways with this great series.

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