Sketchbooks
My mother has spoiled me by coming weekly and bringing an art project with to do with the kids. So, generally speaking, art is a subject that I can ignore, guilt-free. However, I really want the kids to be able to draw better than I can, and to for art to be something that they see and enjoy daily, rather than something important that’s stuffed away in a museum somewhere.
My mother emailed me a bunch of Julian Beaver’s sidewalk drawings last week. All done in chalk, and many in 3D, they are amazing! My kids are still talking about it and trying to figure out how it’s done. The teeny-tiny section of walkway we have is covered in sidewalk chalk.
It was beautiful outside today, so instead of being cooped up inside with our books, we went for a long hike in the woods. We saw our first butterfly of the season. Then we came home and everyone chose a crocus to sketch.
Last time we tried sketching out in the yard, McKenna was in tears. She is very easily frustrated by her lack of perfection. She almost lost it today, but pulled herself together nicely and drew a beautiful picture.
Priscilla stole Michael’s sketchbook, stopped repeatedly to throw peanuts to her duck, Susannah, and scribbled bright red scribbles all over my sketch. She had a delightful time.
Michael conveniently took himself off to another corner of the yard to work, far away from the prying lens of my camera. I did manage to sneak a shot of his work after Priscilla stole his sketchbook, though. He has a knack for adding depth that I can’t quite capture. I wish I could get him to spend a bit more time on his drawings. I’d love to see what he could do with some effort. He whipped this out in less than 30 seconds and took off to the trampoline.
Usually in the springtime, my father looses patience with my mom’s art lessons and wants to take the kids hiking. I’m planning to stock everyone’s backpacks with a small sketchbook and some colored pencils, so they can have something to do when Priscilla’s little legs need a break. I hope to have a refrigerator door full of these sketches soon.
April 19, 2009 at 10:15 am
What a great way to work art into their lessons! I love the idea of sketching on a hike…
May 8, 2009 at 2:51 am
I love these kinds of street drawings, I think they are amazing! Thanks for sharing!
May 8, 2009 at 2:04 pm
Tracy! Your drawings are just as impressive! Wow!