One thing I’ve been wanting to do is give my children a foundation in art appreciation, and maybe even some skill. I signed up as a volunteer with my school district and they trained me in three different sessions to lead “Art Masterpiece” discussions in the schools.
Every other Friday I get to go Blake’s third grade class with a print of one of the art masters and lead a discussion with the kids. Friday was my first day and it was so much fun. We studied a painting by Jean Honore Fragonard; “Blindman’s Bluff.” We discussed the artist’s use of light and dark, as well as lines, to draw the eye. We discussed perception, how to make some objects look closer while others look farther.
We also talked about the Rococo style and how the French Revolution played it’s role in ending it.
It’s all so fascinating. Paintings that otherwise would not hold my interest are so engaging when you look at them in terms of design principles and historical background.
Another benefit to this is the fact that my son still wants me present and involved in school and he is not shy to express it. That always makes a mom feel good, right?
Note to fellow photographers: Hard-hat constructive criticism wanted on the photo of Blake, please. Personally, I would move the subject over to the right. Hindsight. Also, you may not be able to tell on my blog but the photo is grainy. I had to set the camera on the highest ISO because it was overcast. My husband just surprised me with a new 50mm lens, so I shouldn’t have that problem anymore! Any other critiques to add to my own?
