The Brightside: Ideas And Techniques To Spark Their Creativity

Ideas and techniques to spark their creativity, for our We Are Artists art exhibition and competition.

Bird’s Eye View Drawings

Encourage children to climb to a higher vantage point, such as a treehouse or balcony, to observe the garden from above. Have them sketch what they see, capturing the layout of pathways, patches of flowers, and any wildlife they spot. This activity not only hones their observational skills, but also provides a fresh perspective on their surroundings.

Fantasy Garden Scenes

Invite children to imagine and draw their ideal fantasy garden. Encourage them to incorporate elements of whimsy and magic, such as talking animals, enchanted flowers or fantastical tree houses. This open-ended activity allows them to unleash their creativity and create fantastical worlds limited only by their imagination.

Leaf Rubbings

This is a great one for younger children. Take the kids on a scavenger hunt to find leaves of various shapes and sizes in the garden, park or bush. Place a leaf under a piece of paper and, using crayons or pastels, gently rub over the paper to reveal the texture and intricate veins of the leaf. Experiment with different colours and overlapping leaves to create unique patterns and designs.

Paint and Colour

Experiment with paint and introduce your kids to colour theory. Teach them to mix their primary colours into secondary colours. Tint the secondary colours into different shades. Help them to match shades in the garden and create an abstract artwork. Or maybe stretch their skills to create a Monet-style impressionist piece.

Sensory Drawings

Encourage children to engage their senses while drawing in the garden. Have them close their eyes and listen to the sounds of nature, feel the texture of leaves and flowers, and inhale the scents of blossoms and earth. Then, ask them to translate these sensory experiences into drawings, using lines, shapes, and colours to convey the sights, sounds, and sensations of the garden.

Garden Portraits

Provide children with mirrors and encourage them to sit in the garden, observing their reflections amidst the natural backdrop. Have them draw self-portraits or portraits of each other, paying attention to details such as facial expressions, posture, and the play of light and shadow. This activity not only enhances their drawing skills but also fosters self-awareness and appreciation of their surroundings.

Night Time Garden Drawings

Explore the garden after dark and observe how it transforms under the moonlight. Provide children with glow-in-the-dark or fluorescent markers and paper, and encourage them to sketch the nocturnal scene. They can capture the mysterious shadows, twinkling stars, and any nocturnal creatures they encounter, creating enchanting artworks that come to life in the darkness.

These drawing activities not only provide endless opportunities for creativity and self-expression but also deepen children’s connection with nature and foster a sense of wonder and appreciation for the beauty of the garden.