Art Activities Based on Famous Artists for Kindergarten

This free lesson introduces Kindergarten students to art activities based on famous artists. Students explore how artists make pictures using line, color, shape, and texture while creating their own artwork inspired by Mondrian, Picasso, and Seurat.

Overview

In this multi-day art unit, students discover that artists make pictures in different ways. Children learn to recognize three famous artists and experiment with their techniques. The class studies geometric line paintings by Piet Mondrian, collage portraits by Pablo Picasso, and dotted paintings inspired by Georges Seurat. Students learn to observe carefully, talk about what they see, and create original artwork using similar methods.

Subject Connections

The lesson focuses on art as students explore visual elements such as color, line, and shape. English Language Arts supports the lesson as students describe artwork and explain their choices. Mathematics appears when students identify geometric shapes and patterns. Art remains the primary learning focus.

Learning Goals

• Recognize that different artists use different styles
• Identify lines, shapes, and colors in artwork
• Create artwork using specific techniques
• Describe artwork using simple vocabulary
• Express opinions about art respectfully

Materials

• White drawing paper
• Black markers or crayons
• Primary color paints
• Paintbrushes and paper plates
• Magazines, newspapers, and colored paper
• Glue sticks and scissors
• Cotton swabs or fingertips for dot painting
• Rulers

Preparation

• Print several sample images of artwork by Mondrian, Picasso, and Seurat
• Prepare collage materials sorted into containers
• Set up drying space for paintings
• Cover tables and prepare cleaning supplies

Teaching Procedure

Each session fits a standard class period of 30–40 minutes.

Session 1 – Discovering Different Art Styles

1. The teacher displays three artworks and asks students to describe colors, lines, and shapes. Students share observations and produce a class chart of what they notice.
2. Activity: Puzzle Art Sorting. The teacher gives small groups mixed image pieces of three paintings. Using printed picture puzzles and a flat workspace, students assemble images by matching colors and lines. Students complete the pictures and explain how they decided which pieces belonged together.
3. The teacher introduces the idea that different artists have different styles. Students draw one thing they noticed in the pictures.

Session 2 – Painting Like Mondrian

1. The teacher shows a Mondrian painting and demonstrates drawing vertical and horizontal lines with a ruler. Students produce a line grid on paper.
2. Activity: Primary Color Grid Painting. Using rulers, markers, and red, yellow, and blue paint, students color some shapes and leave others white. Students create a geometric painting and display it.
3. The class compares paintings and identifies similarities.

Session 3 – Picasso Collage Faces

1. The teacher shows a Picasso portrait and explains that artists can change how a face looks. Students identify facial features.
2. Activity: Collage Portrait. Using magazines, glue, and paper, students cut eyes, noses, and mouths and rearrange them to make a new face. Students create a collage portrait and give it a title.
3. Students present their artwork and describe their picture to the class.

Session 4 – Seurat Dot Painting

1. The teacher displays a Seurat painting and points out tiny dots. Students observe closely.
2. Activity: Pointillism Dot Painting. Using cotton swabs or fingertips and paint, students fill a simple drawing with small dots instead of brush strokes. Students produce a dotted picture showing careful dot technique.
3. The class compares paintings and discusses how dots create images.

Session 5 – Art Gallery Day

1. The teacher helps students choose their favorite artwork. Students mount and sign their work.
2. Students walk through the classroom gallery and describe at least one artwork they see.
3. Students explain which artist style they liked best and why.

Assessment

• Student participation in discussions
• Ability to match styles to artists
• Completed artworks showing the intended technique
• Student explanation of their artwork

Differentiation

• Provide pre-cut collage pieces for students who need fine motor support
• Offer thicker drawing tools
• Allow verbal explanations instead of written responses
• Pair students for cooperative work

Grade Adaptation

Kindergarten students observe art and create simple images using guided techniques. For Grade 1 students, add written labels and simple comparisons between artists. For Grade 2 students, include independent drawings and short written descriptions explaining style differences.

Extension Ideas

• Create a classroom art museum
• Sort artwork by style
• Paint outdoors and compare natural patterns
• Connect art to music by painting while listening to instrumental music