The Greek philosopher Aristotle stated that a human being “learns at first by imitation.” For example, seeing and doing what others do (provided it’s not harmful) is how we learn to speak, read, write and interact with others – essential stuff for navigating life. This also applies to art. In fact, as a young teen, the artist William Turner worked for architects and is said to have learnt tricks of the trade by copying and colouring prints of British castles and abbeys.
In my art classes, I like to share images of works done by some of the world’s greatest artists. Copying or creating our own versions of famous artworks can be a good way to learn about composition, colour and what the artist sought to achieve. In a recent class I used Vincent Van Gogh’s ‘Wheatfield with Crows’ as inspiration for our lesson. We started with the horizon line where the yellow wheatfield meets the sky. Using perspective, we drew the winding path, receding into the distance. The dark blue sky is busy with frenzied crows, drawn simply in thick black zigzag shapes. It’s said to be Van Gogh’s final painting, symbolising the cycle of life and death. As you can see from these photos, the children did a wonderful job creating their own cornfields, copied from the great master. Van Gogh is definitely a favourite!
I am currently teaching children’s art classes in SNCN Glounthaune NS, Midleton and Glanmire. If you’re interested in future classes, follow me on Facebook at facebook.com/frazzledmammy, visit my website at frazzledmammy.com/art-classes, or contact me at 087 6684021 for more information.