I've shared before about how we learn about artists in our homeschool and I always love it if my kids can see some of the artists’ works in person. We have so many great museums in our state that we've been able to see a lot of different works, either through permanent collections or temporary exhibits. One of my favorite artists, Monet, was one we weren't able to see for ourselves – until now! Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa has "Monet and the Seine: Impressions of a River" on exhibit through September 21, so this is a great opportunity for your kids to get up close and personal with one of the world's most famous painters!
We had a really fun time learning about Monet, so I wanted to share some of the resources and projects we used in case you'd like to add in some extras with a visit to Philbrook!
Books:
- Count Monet's Lilies: This one is great for your littlest ones with its touch and feel pictures.
- A Picnic with Monet: This board book from the Mini Masters series is another terrific book for toddlers and preschoolers.
- Monet: We love Mike Venezia's Getting to Know the World's Greatest Artists series. There is tons of great information – along with his humorous pictures!
- Monet and the Impressionists for Kids: If you're looking for activities along with biographical information, this is one of the best out there.
- Claude Monet: The Painter Who Stopped the Trains: Almost everyone thinks of flowers when they think of Monet, but he also loved to paint trains. This story tells how he came to paint the trains and shares more about his technique, too.
- The Magical Garden of Claude Monet: We have really enjoyed the books in the Anholt's Artists Books for Children series. This one tells the story of a little girl who meets Monet in his famed garden.
- Monet's Impressions: This book is different from the others because instead of being a story about Monet's life, it is simply Monet's own words accompanied by his paintings.
Projects:
- 3D Waterlilies: This project is simple and beautiful – even your younger kids can do it!
- Bridge Paintings: Use painter's tape to make a scene with the bridge from Monet's famous garden.
- Reflections : We tried a reflection picture from the activity book listed above that was fun and easily adaptable for different levels.
Whether you kick off your new school year with Monet or take a summer road trip to see the exhibit at Philbrook, take some time to get your hands messy, and make some fun art with your kids. Enjoy!