Elementary Art Lessons, Projects & Teaching Ideas for K–5

Because art is fundamental to who we are. Art has always been a basic form of human communication. From cave walls to classroom walls, art helps us express ideas, tell stories, and better understand the world around us. I believe art is an essential part of every child's education, which is why I chose the name Art is Basic. Here you'll find K–5 creative art lessons, teaching ideas, and printable resources to help K–5 art teachers inspire young artists.
Cool drawing of a bird with simple lines and wispy feathers against a white background.

Really Cool Drawing Site

While reading Mini Matisse’s Blog I learned about this really cool online drawing program that allows you to draw with different types of marks:  fur, webbed, squares, ribbon, sketchy and others.  I’m in love with how it looks! …

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Cute Artsy Baby Blog

This blog shows pictures of a baby on top of towels arranged in an artful scene.  They are so adorable!! These pictures are gorgeous, but they make me mad for two reasons. 1.  My baby NEVER slept peacefully…

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A red wagon with sunflowers and a brown paper bag on a sidewalk; a person strolling by in sandals and jeans, adding to the scene's prettiness.

Sunflower Prettiness

  Wagon of Sunflowers, July 2010 This photograph I took at the Farmer’s Market in Madison.  This wagon was just sitting there unattended while the owner went to go purchase some more vegetables.  It just is a nice…

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A child uses colorful paper strips to create a woven pattern on a table, showcasing the magic of Weaving Wonders.

Weaving Wonders Part 3

  Paper Weaving.  One of the projects I did with the kids for my Weaving Wonders Camp was Paper Weaving.  Paper weaving is, of course, one of the first and most basic types of weaving.  Kids in kindergarten,…

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