art assignment topics

45 High School Art Project Ideas For Your Next Creative Assignment

Art is a medium of expression that can be exhibited through endless ways and creative means. Its beauty lies in the fact that its boundaries are limitless and each art piece can be interpreted according to individual tastes and life experiences.

Thus, choosing a high school art project idea for high school students can be a significant mental task. These very art project ideas can ignite a passion for art, which they may wish to pursue later in their lives. Hence, the need to nudge them into creativity and be aware of its influence on their impressionable minds is important.

Choosing An Art Project Idea

Choosing an art project idea is a very personal experience that is unique to each individual. There are multiple factors involved in this selection that need to be considered before a final consensus is reached. Some steps and criteria to guide you in selecting a project that aligns with your interests, skills, and educational goals are:

Identify Your Interests and Passions: Choose a project that resonates with your interests or experiences. Whether it’s a favorite hobby, a cause you’re passionate about, or a theme you find intriguing, personal connection will keep you motivated. You may also consider areas you haven’t explored yet in your artwork. This could be an opportunity to delve into a new style, technique, or subject matter that excites you.
Assess Your Skill Level: Choose a project that matches your current skill level while still offering a bit of a challenge. If a project is too difficult, it could lead to frustration, but if it’s too easy, it may not be fulfilling. Consider what skills you want to develop. Do you want to improve your drawing, painting, or sculpting abilities? Pick a project that focuses on these areas.
Consider the Resources Available: Ensure you have access to the necessary materials and tools for your project. If not, think about how you can adapt your idea to fit what you have or what you can easily obtain. Think about the time you have to complete the project and the space where you’ll be working. Some projects may require more time or a larger workspace than others.
Set a Clear Objective: Be clear about your artistic goals. What do you want to achieve with this project? Is it to express an idea, tell a story, experiment with a new technique, or explore a specific theme? Having a clear goal can guide your creative process. Also, analyse the learning outcomes you wish to achieve. Consider what you want to learn from the project. This could be a new technique, understanding a new concept, or exploring a different cultural perspective.
Think About the Audience: Consider whether your project will be displayed publicly, submitted for a competition, or shared with a specific audience. This might influence your choice of theme, style, or medium. Also, consider the message you wish to convey to your audience. Think about what you want your audience to take away from your artwork. What message or emotion do you want to convey?
Explore Themes and Concepts: Start with broad themes like identity, nature, technology, or society. Then narrow it down to something more specific that interests you, such as exploring identity through self-portraits or environmental issues through recycled art. On the other hand, if you prefer conceptual art, think about ideas or social issues that are important to you and how you can express them visually.
Research and Inspiration: Study the work of artists you admire and analyze what makes their work compelling to you. This can give you ideas for your project. You may create an inspiration board or sketchbook where you gather images, colors, textures, and other elements that inspire you. This can help you visualize and refine your project idea.
Experiment and Play: Before committing to a final project, do some sketching or create small prototypes. This allows you to test out ideas, compositions, and techniques. Sometimes, the best ideas come from unexpected places. Be willing to adapt or change your project as you experiment and discover new possibilities.
Discuss with Your Teacher or Peers: Discuss your ideas with your art teacher or classmates. They can provide valuable feedback, suggest improvements, or help you refine your concept. If possible, consider collaborating with others. Group projects can offer new perspectives and ideas, making the final work richer and more diverse.
Plan for Execution: Once you’ve chosen your project, break it down into manageable steps. This could include research, sketching, gathering materials, and setting milestones. Allocate time for each step and consider deadlines. Good planning will help you stay on track and reduce stress.

High School Art Project Ideas

High school art project ideas need to be selected catering to the age demographic, cultural perspectives, and resources available in the area. At the same time, they need to inspire confidence, explore various art techniques, and spark creativity in the students.

Here are some high school art project ideas that can help with this:

Mixed Media Collage: Create a collage using a mix of materials such as fabric, paper, photographs, and paint. The theme could be personal identity, cultural heritage, or a social issue.
Self-Portrait Series: Develop a series of self-portraits in different styles (e.g., realism, abstract, cubism) or using various mediums (e.g., pencil, watercolor, digital).
Environmental Art: Use recycled materials or natural elements to create artwork that highlights environmental issues such as pollution, deforestation, or climate change.
3D Sculpture: Work with clay, wire, or found objects to create a 3D sculpture. The subject could be anything from a human figure to an abstract form.
Perspective Drawing: Explore one-point, two-point, or three-point perspective by creating a detailed drawing of an urban landscape, an interior scene, or a fantasy world.
Typography Art: Design an artwork that focuses on typography. You could create a word or phrase using different fonts and styles to convey a message or emotion.
Art Inspired by Music: Listen to a piece of music and create an artwork that visually represents the mood, rhythm, or story of the music.
Art with a Social Message: Choose a social issue that you’re passionate about (e.g., mental health, equality, human rights) and create an artwork that raises awareness or makes a statement.
Time-Lapse Painting: Create a painting or drawing and document the process with a time-lapse video. The final video can be as much a part of the project as the artwork itself.
Cultural Exploration: Research an art style or tradition from a culture different from your own and create an artwork that pays homage to or reinterprets that style.
Altered Book Art: Take an old or discarded book and transform it into a piece of art by altering its pages through cutting, painting, folding, or adding mixed media elements.
Surrealism Project: Create a surreal artwork inspired by artists like Salvador Dalí or René Magritte. Use unusual combinations of objects and dream-like scenes to create a sense of the bizarre.
Street Art/Graffiti: Design a piece of street art or graffiti on a canvas or wall (with permission). Explore bold colors, typography, and symbolic imagery to create a powerful visual statement.
Shadow Art: Play with light and shadow to create an artwork. Use objects to cast shadows on a surface, or create a sculpture that interacts with light to form interesting shadows.
Digital Art/Photo Manipulation: Use digital tools to create or manipulate images. Explore techniques like digital collage, photo manipulation, or creating entirely digital illustrations.
Optical Illusions: Create an artwork that plays with the viewer’s perception through optical illusions. This can include impossible shapes, ambiguous figures, or perspective tricks.
Fabric Art/Costume Design: Design and create a piece of wearable art or a costume using textiles. This could involve sewing, fabric painting, or even using unconventional materials.
Art Inspired by Literature: Choose a favorite book, poem, or short story and create artwork that illustrates a scene, theme, or character from the text.
Memory Box/Assemblage Art: Create a memory box or assemblage piece that combines personal objects, photographs, and other materials to tell a story or represent a significant memory.
Mural Project: Collaborate with classmates to design and paint a mural. The mural could be on a large canvas, wall, or public space, and could reflect a community theme or shared vision.
Time-Based Art: Create a piece of art that evolves, such as a series of photographs documenting the same subject over days or weeks, or a painting that you gradually change over time.
Exploration of Color: Create an artwork focused on the use of color. This could involve exploring the color theory, monochromatic schemes, or the emotional impact of color.
Nature-Inspired Art: Use natural materials like leaves, flowers, or stones to create an artwork. Alternatively, create a piece that reflects the beauty of the natural world, such as a detailed botanical illustration.
Abstract Expressionism: Experiment with abstract art by focusing on colors, shapes, and textures rather than representational forms. Explore different techniques like action painting, dripping, or layering.
Cultural Masks: Research traditional masks from different cultures and create your mask using paper mache, clay, or other materials. The mask could represent an emotion, a character, or a personal story.
Portrait of a Friend or Family Member: Create a detailed portrait of someone important in your life. This could be done in any medium, and you could experiment with different styles or techniques.
Art Inspired by Science: Create an artwork that explores a scientific concept, such as the human body, the solar system, or cellular structures. This could involve detailed illustrations or abstract representations.
Interactive Art: Design a piece of art that invites interaction from the viewer, such as a puzzle, a piece that can be touched, or an installation that responds to movement or sound.
Symbolism in Art: Create an artwork that uses symbols to convey a deeper meaning. You could explore personal symbols, cultural symbols, or universal ones.
Fantasy World Creation: Imagine and create an entire fantasy world through a series of drawings, paintings, or mixed media pieces. This could include landscapes, creatures, and characters.
Digital Portraits: Use digital tools to create detailed, stylized portraits. You could experiment with techniques like glitch art, digital painting, or 3D modeling.
Time Capsule Art: Create a piece of art that represents the current moment in time for you, which could be placed in a time capsule and opened at a later date to reflect on your thoughts and feelings.
Social Media as Art: Create an artwork that explores the impact of social media on our lives. This could involve using digital mediums, photography, or even creating a physical piece that comments on the digital world.
Personal Map: Draw or paint a personal map that represents your life journey, your thoughts, or your emotions. It doesn’t have to be a literal map but can include abstract elements that symbolize different parts of your life.
Art Installation: Design and create an installation that transforms a space. This could involve light, sound, objects, or even interactive elements that invite viewers to become part of the artwork.
Art in Everyday Objects: Transform an everyday object into a piece of art by altering its appearance, function, or context. This could involve painting, sculpting, or assembling objects in new and unexpected ways.
Reflection Art: Create an artwork that explores the theme of reflection, either literally (using mirrors or reflective surfaces) or metaphorically (reflecting on a memory, event, or idea).
Cultural Symbolism: Research and create an artwork inspired by the symbolism found in a specific culture’s art. This could involve exploring traditional motifs, colors, and patterns.
Art Based on a Scientific Principle: Explore a scientific concept through art. For example, you could create a piece that visualizes the concept of time, gravity, or evolution.
Thematic Series: Develop a series of artworks around a central theme, such as “Growth,” “Conflict,” or “Transformation.” Each piece should explore a different aspect of the theme.
Mind Maps: Create a visual mind map of your thoughts, ideas, or knowledge on a specific topic. This could be done in a highly stylized or abstract way, connecting different concepts visually.
Deconstruction Art: Take an object and deconstruct it, either physically or conceptually, to explore its parts in a new way. The final piece could be a sculpture, collage, or abstract artwork.
Story Through Objects: Create a still life that tells a story through the arrangement of objects. Consider how the choice of objects, their placement, and the lighting can convey a narrative.
Symbolic Jewelry Design: Design and create a piece of symbolic jewelry using materials like metal, clay, or beads. The jewelry could represent a personal story, a cultural motif, or a concept like protection or love.
Cultural Exploration Through Fashion: Design a series of fashion pieces inspired by the traditional clothing of different cultures. Consider how you can incorporate cultural motifs, colors, and forms into contemporary fashion design.

Significance Of Introducing Students To High School Art Projects

Art projects in high school are crucial for a number of reasons, contributing significantly to students’ personal development, academic growth, and future success. Some of these reasons are

Creative Expression and Emotional Development: Art projects provide students with a healthy outlet for expressing their emotions and thoughts, especially during the often turbulent high school years. Engaging in art helps students explore their identity and beliefs, fostering self-awareness and confidence.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Art challenges students to think creatively and approach problems from different perspectives, enhancing their ability to develop innovative solutions. The process of creating art involves making numerous decisions about composition, color, form, and materials, which strengthens students’ decision-making skills.
Cultural Awareness and Appreciation: Art projects often involve exploring different cultures and historical contexts, helping students appreciate diversity and develop a global perspective. Students learn to express their cultural heritage and respect that of others through their work, promoting inclusivity and understanding.
Interdisciplinary Learning: Art projects can be integrated with subjects like history, literature, science, and mathematics, providing a holistic learning experience. For example, students might create art inspired by scientific concepts or historical events. Also, engaging in art can enhance understanding and retention in other subjects by making abstract concepts tangible and relatable.
Skill Development: Through art projects, students develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and the ability to work with various materials and tools. Art education also helps students develop visual literacy—the ability to interpret, analyze, and create meaning from visual information.
Personal Growth and Confidence: Completing an art project requires planning, perseverance, and attention to detail, fostering self-discipline and patience. Successfully creating and sharing art can boost students’ confidence and sense of accomplishment, particularly when they see their work displayed or receive positive feedback.
Communication Skills: Art teaches students to communicate ideas and emotions visually, which is an important skill in many fields, from advertising to design to social media. Discussing and critiquing art helps students articulate their ideas and opinions, improving their verbal communication and critical analysis skills.
Preparation for the Future: For students interested in pursuing careers in art, design, architecture, or related fields, high school art projects provide a foundation and portfolio development. The skills developed through art, such as creativity, problem-solving, and visual communication, are increasingly valuable in a wide range of careers, not just in traditional art fields.
Stress Relief and Mental Wellbeing: Engaging in art can be a form of stress relief, offering a break from academic pressures and helping to improve mental health through mindfulness and relaxation. The iterative process of creating and refining art helps build resilience, as students learn to cope with mistakes and setbacks.
Community and Collaboration: Collaborative art projects teach students how to work together, negotiate ideas, and contribute to a collective outcome. Participating in art activities can strengthen the sense of community within a school, bringing students together through shared creative experiences.

Art filtrates every aspect of our lives and can inspire us in many ways. Thus, these high school art projects will not be merely a curriculum requirement but will end up providing an extra edge to the personalities of high school students.

To inspire the Leonardo di Vinci in all of them, you may consider redecorating your classroom as well! Here are 12 creative classroom decor ideas to help you get started on this fun project!

An Engineer, Maths expert, Online Tutor, and animal rights activist. I have more than 5 years of teaching experience and have worked closely with students with learning disorders. I have worked with special educators, counselors, and experts in dealing with common issues that students face during their academic journey.

50 Creative Art Project Ideas For College Students

Here are 50 creative art project ideas suitable for college-level students:

Create a self-portrait using abstract shapes, colors, and textures to represent different aspects of your personality. Use white paper and oil pastels or acrylic paint or do something more creative and use only materials from the natural world on black paper. The options are endless.
Gather random objects and create a sculpture by assembling them in a unique and interesting way.
Create a collage using photographs, combining and layering images to tell a visual story.
Utilize 3D printing technology to produce a sculpture or object that explores form and structure.
Design an installation that engages viewers and encourages them to interact with the artwork.
Experiment with digital painting using software like Adobe Photoshop or Procreate. Create a virtual bulletin board for a collaborative art project.
Transform old books into works of art by cutting, folding, and adding your own illustrations.
Build a sculpture that incorporates movement or responds to external stimuli.
Create a stop-motion animation using objects, drawings, or clay figures.
Combine traditional artwork with augmented reality elements using AR apps.
Construct an art installation using recycled materials to highlight sustainability.
Experiment with body painting and use the human form as a canvas for photography.
Design a mosaic using tiles, glass, or other materials to create a visually stunning piece. Take a field trip to local spots and gather materials.
Explore alternative printmaking techniques like monoprinting, cyanotype, or linocut.
Use projection mapping to transform the surfaces of objects or buildings with dynamic visuals.
Create a large-scale installation using ceramic pieces to explore form and texture.
Craft a sculpture using natural materials like branches, leaves, and stones.
Experiment with creating a sculpture by making a cast of a part of the human body.
Keep an art journal documenting your creative process, thoughts, and visual ideas.
Design an artwork using typography as the primary visual element.
Develop a virtual reality art experience that immerses viewers in a digital environment. This is a creative way to blend technology and art.
Create an art installation that involves auditory elements and explores the relationship between sound and visual art.
Build a detailed miniature world inside a box or container.
Create poetry by selecting and rearranging words from existing texts, newspapers, or books.
Stage a live art performance, incorporating elements of theater, dance, or music.
Experiment with graffiti art techniques, either on canvas or an approved outdoor space.
Use wire to create intricate sculptures that play with form and negative space.
Develop a series of fashion illustrations that showcase your unique style.
Explore the art of glassblowing to create intricate glass sculptures or vessels.
Combine various materials like fabric, paper, and found objects to create a mixed media collage.
Experiment with long-exposure photography and light sources to create dynamic and abstract images.
Create an installation using textiles and fabric to explore texture, color, and form.
Develop a project that focuses on conveying a conceptual idea through various mediums.
Take your sketchbook to the streets and create drawings or paintings of urban scenes.
Collect sounds from your environment and compose a piece of music or an audio installation.
Create a performance art piece and document it through video. Video project require another set of skills as well but video is highly profitable skill in today’s world.
Build a shadow box that tells a story or explores a theme using three-dimensional objects.
Develop a series of landscape paintings exploring different techniques and styles.
Use augmented reality apps to enhance street art and create interactive experiences.
Use your body’s movement to create drawings or paintings, capturing the essence of motion.
Create maps that illustrate personal experiences, emotions, or imaginary worlds.
Produce an experimental short film that incorporates unconventional storytelling techniques.
Experiment with fabric dyeing techniques, such as tie-dye or shibori, and create printed patterns.
Weld or manipulate metal to create sculptures that explore form, balance, and structure. You could even make cookie cutters and then make cookies from what you’ve created for your college art project.
Design and illustrate your own book, exploring both the narrative and visual aspects.
Develop a photography series that explores a specific concept or theme.
Create temporary art installations in natural settings using materials found on-site.
Design and print your own textiles, exploring pattern and color.
Create artworks that explore personal or societal views on body image and self-perception.
Develop an art project with therapeutic goals , addressing personal or social issues through creative expression.

These art project ideas are diverse and can be adapted based on your interests, preferred mediums, and artistic style. Feel free to combine or modify these ideas to create unique and meaningful art projects for your college-level coursework.

Unlocking Your Creativity

College serves as an expansive canvas for young artists, offering an environment brimming with new experiences, diverse perspectives, and stimulating challenges that are tailor-made to fuel the creative fires.

It is in this unique academic setting that college students can harness their life experiences and academic learning as sources of inspiration to funnel into their art.

To tap into this wellspring of creativity, students are encouraged to maintain an open mind, engage in campus activities outside their comfort zone, and utilize their coursework as a muse for their artistic endeavors. Trying new mediums and techniques, such as digital art , sculpture , or printmaking , not only broadens their artistic repertoire, but also cultivates adaptability and innovation in their creative expression.

Embracing the variety of art supplies and art workshops available on campus can further expand their horizons and augment their artistic skills, pushing the boundaries of their usual creative processes. By immersing themselves in college’s vast pool of opportunities, students open the doors to discovering fresh art ideas and new ways of creative expression , setting the stage for a rich and vibrant artistic path.

Budget-Friendly Art Ideas

Embarking on creative endeavors in college need not drain your finances. A thrifty approach to art can involve recycled materials , such as repurposed cardboard, discarded magazines, and reclaimed fabrics, to not only save on costs but also add unique textures to your projects.

Scouring thrift stores and yard sales can unearth affordable art supplies and unexpected materials. Additionally, many art stores offer student discounts , allowing you to access quality resources without the hefty price tag. Be on the lookout for community art swaps or exchanges where you can trade materials with peers.

Embracing a DIY ethos can also inspire you to create your own supplies, for instance, mixing your own paint colors or crafting sketchbooks from recycled paper. The university’s art department may have resources like free workshops or a reuse center, offering an economical gateway to expand your artistic repertoire.

Here Are Some Art Projects for Beginners:

DIY Canvas Painting: Experiment with simple paint techniques like sponging or finger painting to create abstract designs on canvas. This is a relaxing way to start with painting while learning color theory and composition.
Papier-Mâché Sculpture: Create sculptures using recycled newspaper and glue. It’s an accessible project for beginners and helps understand three-dimensional forms.
Basic Printmaking: Use everyday objects such as leaves or cut potatoes to practice printmaking. This teaches pattern-making and the basics of ink application.
Recycled Art: Reuse materials to build an eco-friendly art piece. It’s a great way to learn about sustainability in art and can involve anything from plastic bottles to old clothing.
Photography Project: Start with a smartphone or a basic camera and capture themes like ‘A Day in the Life’ or ‘Urban Landscapes’. It helps beginners understand framing and lighting.
Sketching and Drawing: Begin with pencil sketches focusing on still life or outdoor scenes to hone observation and hand-eye coordination.
Basic Digital Art: Utilize free digital drawing tools to create artwork on a computer or tablet. It’s an important skill set for modern art practices and encourages understanding of digital mediums.
Mural Painting: Collaborate on a group mural project utilizing simple shapes and colors to contribute to a larger piece. This helps with planning and executing larger scale works.

Here are Examples of More Advanced Art Project Challenges:

Large-Scale Mural Painting: Tackle the grandeur of public art by engaging in a mural project that requires planning, collaboration, and a mastery of painting techniques.
Interactive Sculpture: Challenge both technical and conceptual skills by creating sculptures that require viewer participation or integrate mechanical elements.
Advanced Printmaking Series: Delve into the complexities of printmaking with a series of related prints that explore advanced techniques such as intaglio or lithography.
Complex Mixed Media Installations: Push the envelope with an installation that combines various media and engages with the exhibition space in immersive ways.
Conceptual Photography Project: Develop a photography project with a strong thematic focus, requiring in-depth research and a sophisticated approach to visual storytelling.

Another Idea: Collaborative Pieces and Group Projects

Working together on a collaborative art piece can significantly enhance the experience of creating and learning for college students. Such projects not only merge diverse perspectives and artistic skills but also foster a spirit of community and cooperation.

For instance, a mural painting involving multiple student artists can transform a bland campus wall into a vibrant tapestry of collective expression. Similarly, sculpture installations made from recycled materials encourage students to discuss environmental themes and develop problem-solving skills as a team.

Another inspiring group project could be the creation of a large-scale mixed media piece , where each participant contributes a segment that reflects personal narratives or cultural backgrounds, ultimately weaving a story that is bigger than its parts.

By participating in such endeavors, students learn the vital role of teamwork and shared creativity in accomplishing artistic visions and projects.

Displaying Your Artwork

Once you’ve poured your heart into a piece, finding the right platform to share it can be just as rewarding. An excellent starting point is a digital portfolio , where you can curate and display your work professionally. Websites like Behance or your personal site can serve as a great showcase for potential employers or art schools.

Students should also take advantage of college exhibitions , which not only provide a legitimate space for your artwork but also offer a chance to receive feedback and network. Additionally, social media platforms have become indispensable for artists today, offering a broad audience and engagement opportunities.

Don’t overlook local coffee shops, libraries, or community centers either; they often have space dedicated to local artists. Remember, the act of presenting your art to the public is crucial – it’s a bold statement of your creativity and a significant step in your artistic journey.

Digital Art and Tech Integration

The intersection of art and technology opens up a new realm of possibilities for college students eager to expand their creative toolkit. Digital art tools and software, such as Adobe Photoshop for photo manipulation, Illustrator for vector graphics, and Procreate for digital painting on tablets, provide students with the means to push the boundaries of traditional art forms.

Blender can be used for 3D modeling and animation, while Unity offers an introduction to the world of game design and art. Encouraging the integration of technology in art not only enhances the creative process but also prepares student artists for a digital-centric professional landscape.

By blending traditional painting techniques with graphic design, or incorporating digital elements into sculpture and printmaking, students can create mixed media masterpieces that are unique and innovative. Embracing the digital dimension in art projects allows for endless experimentation and growth in both artistic skills and technological proficiency.

Reflections Through the Canvas

Art projects during college not only serve as a form of creative expression but also play a significant role in personal and professional growth. As you embark on various art endeavors, taking the time to reflect on your artistic journey can be incredibly rewarding.

Documenting your progress through journals, blogs, or visual portfolios allows you to witness your evolution as an artist. This practice isn’t just about preserving memories; it’s a proactive approach to developing your artistic skills and creating a body of work that can be instrumental in your portfolio development.

Such a portfolio can open doors to future opportunities and serve as a testament to your dedication and talent. So, continue to push boundaries, experiment with new techniques, and most importantly, keep creating. Remember, every piece you create is a step towards mastering your craft and cementing your unique artistic voice.

Art Topics - 200+ Brilliant Ideas to Begin With

By: Nova A.

14 min read

Reviewed By: Rylee W.

Published on: Apr 23, 2019

Are you a student struggling to find interesting and engaging art topics for your assignments or projects?

The world of art is vast and diverse, offering countless possibilities for exploration and creative expression. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to narrow down your focus. But fret not, as we're here to help you navigate this artistic maze!

In this blog, we will provide you with a curated list of fascinating art topics that will inspire your creativity and make your assignments stand out. Whether you're interested in exploring different art movements or delving into the cultural and historical significance of art, we've got you covered.

So let’s get started!

On this Page

Art Topics For Students

Here are some engaging art topics to write about that will spark your creativity and deepen your understanding of the artistic world.

The Impressionist movement and its impact on art.
Exploring the use of color in abstract art.
The influence of nature in landscape painting.
The evolution of portraiture throughout history.
The symbolism in still life paintings.
The role of art in social and political activism.
Exploring different art mediums: painting, sculpture, photography, etc.
The connection between art and emotions.
Exploring cultural diversity in art.
The representation of mythology in art.

Art Topics for Elementary Students

Here's a table with three columns containing art topics suitable for grades 3, 4, and 5:

Art Topics For Elementary School Students -WriteMyEssay.help

History Art Topics

We always turn back and refer to history in hopes of avoiding past mistakes and learning new things. The same goes for art history. It provides us with a great number of exciting subjects and topics.

You can write about any art movement, time period, and school, talk about their origin and uniqueness, etc. Following are some amazing topics related to history that can help you draft an exceptional piece of writing.

Egyptians used the same art canon for 3000 years. Why?
The history and techniques used in printmaking.
What is the philosophy of art? Explain the relationship between art and philosophy.
African countries and the return of cultural property post World War II.
Discuss primeval musical instruments.
Stained glass in Medieval France.
Venetian carnival masks and their history.
Human sacrifice in Mayan culture and its depiction in art.
Components of sculptures in Ancient Greece.
Draw a comparison between Egyptian and Mesoamerican pyramids.
The history and origin of Greek theater.
Biblical motives in the early paintings of Leonardo da Vinci.
The significance of Christian symbols in Renaissance art.
The beauty standards of Renaissance women.
The significance of Raphael’s work.

Art Topics on Artist Bibliography

Artist’s bibliographies make up for interesting essay topics. You never know what you might find going deep into their personal and professional lives, struggles, childhood, and their thinking and ideas.

We have gathered a list of artists from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries, respectively, for you to choose for your upcoming art essay.

18th Century

William Blake
Francisco Goya
J. M. W. Turner
Samuel Morse
Jacques-Louis David
Eugene Delacroix
Thomas Gainsborough
Mikhail Lomonosov
John James Audubon
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Katsushika Hokusai
Marie Tussaud
E. T. A. Hoffmann
Grandma Moses

19th Century

Vincent Willem Van Gogh
Claude Manet
Gustav Klimt
Rabindranath Tagore
Henri-Émile-Benoît Matisse
Hilaire Germain Edgar
Auguste Renoir
Georges Seurat
Alfred Sisley
Edgar Degas
Paul Cezanne
John Everett Millais
Frederic Remington
Thomas Lawrence
Adolf Menzel

20th Century

Louise Bourgeois
Marcel Duchamp
Frida Kahlo
Pablo Picasso
Judy Chicago
Cindy Sherman
Andy Warhol
Henry Spencer Moore
Georgia Totto O’Keeffe
Alberto Giacometti
David Smith
Vanessa Bell
Frank Lloyd Wright
Benny Andrews

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Art Topics on Different Epochs

The 18th century was an era of lavish architecture and musicians.

Influence of industrial revolution on art development.
Late Baroque architecture.
Rococo interior design.
Importance of Denis Diderot’s critiques of French art in the 18th century.
Neoclassicism sculpture: A combination of new and old ideas.
Comparison between Baroque and Rococo art designs.
Well-known composers of First Viennese School.
Marquis de Sade and its contribution to literature.
Significance of Denis Diderot’s criticism of French Art.
History of the famous Eugene Delacroix’s paintings.

The work of the artists of the 19th century.

Vincent van Gogh’s The Starry Night and its colorists.
Why is the carving of the Veiled Virgin by Giovanni Strazza so special?
How were the Victorian beauty standards portrayed in their art?
Monet’s Sunrise: what is so special about the light?
Dancing paintings by Edgar Degas.
Changes in the methodology of Impressionism paintings.
Artists and their depiction of Victorian beauty standards.
The relation between Goya’s prints and French caricatures.
The historical significance of Francisco de Goya’s paintings.
Paul Gauguin's savage art.

20th-century movements

Art Deco and Art Nouveau: similarities and differences.
Surrealism in Salvador Dali’s sculptures.
Basic principles of futurism.
Frida Kahlo’s paintings and the most commonly used symbol in them.
Techniques used in Jackson Pollock’s art?
The Kiss by Gustav Klimt: discuss its styles.
Jasper Johns Flag: realistic and artificial motifs.
Futurism and its basic principles.
Unusual techniques in the art of Jackson Pollock.
Evolution of mannerism in Pablo Picasso’s paintings.

Art Therapy Topics

Art therapy is a worthwhile resource to explore. Here is an interesting list of art therapy topic ideas that you can consider before starting your writing process.

Art therapy as an industry.
Art Therapy a Form of Psychotherapy.
Art Therapy in Abused Children.
Art for Communities and Families.
Art therapy and the creative process.
Benefits of art therapy.
Art Therapy in Group Setting.
Art Therapy in Children and its Effectiveness.
Quantitative Research in Art Therapy.
The Power of Art Therapy.
Techniques Used For Art Therapy.
Losing Yourself in Art.
Art Therapy Resources.
Art Therapy Activities.
Art therapy and mental health.

Art Debate Topics

Coming up with an interesting Art debate topic can be tricky. There are a number of things that you need to consider when coming up with an interesting topic. Following are some of the unique debate topics ideas that you can consider choosing.

Should abstract be considered a type of art?
Should art be recognized more academically?
Should kids draw horror art?
The purpose of art.
Is it possible to appreciate art without liking it?
Art vs. Design.
How important is art for children's education?
How art affects and reflects the world.
Is Art Really Necessary Anymore?
Was Hitler’s contribution to the arts powerful?
Modern art and its legitimacy.
Critiquing styles of Harold Rosenberg and Clement Greenberg.
The uniqueness of Russian artists.
How is primitivism real art?

Art Persuasive Speech Topics

When given to come up with a persuasive speech, it is often up to students to choose a topic.

Choosing the right topic is not an easy task. Here you can find some of the interesting art persuasive speech topic ideas to help you start the process.

Do some pets pose a danger to the community?
Is battery farming ethical?
Why should art classes be enforced in all public schools?
How can one benefit from having a pet?
What makes a dog a perfect pet?
How are dolphins important to the environment?
Reasons why you should not raise wild animals as pets
What we lose when animals go extinct.
Reasons why students should be taught to play musical instruments in school.
Significance of learning different languages.
Why should graffiti be considered art?
Why should museums be free for citizens?
Significance of cultural art education in schools
Effectiveness of music therapy.
How cultural interactions can make people successful professionally?

You can also explore articles to find more persuasive speech topic ideas on 5StarEssays.com and write compelling essays.

Art Topics on Different Cultures

How has pop art influenced American culture?
Styles and material used in Japanese calligraphy.
How does the henna pattern differ in the Middle East, India, and Africa?
Asian tribes: their fashion and textile.
Maori culture: war dance haka.
Bollywood and the Hindi film industry.
Why should inappropriate language in English literature be removed?
Bollywood dance routines Vs. Americans.
History and significance of pop music culture.
Why should art therapy be covered in medical health insurance in different parts of the world?
Pros and cons of watching Sci-Fi films.
Comparison between the romantic comedy of Hollywood Vs. Bollywood.
Features of Irani cinema.
Significance of sitar in Hindu culture.
Contemporary dance forms in different cultures.

Art Topics on Ancient Civilization

Influence of science on Ancient Greek sculptures
Explain the main reasons for the shift in Roman artistic style in the 4th century.
The Great Wall of China and its construction.
Women and Politics in Ancient Rome.
Female representation in Ancient Art.
Art and architecture in Ancient Times.
The story behind the art and architecture of Ancient Rome.
Describe Ancient Greek literature and theater.
Contribution of Ancient Civilizations to the modern art
Depiction of beauty in Ancient Art

Art Research Paper Topics

Despite the fact that art cannot be measured with figures as its value depends on personal impressions, it still can be a subject for research.

It is quite a challenging task to study something full of emotions. But don’t worry, as there is much credible data that you can include in your research paper only if you choose the right topic.

Following are some of the interesting topic ideas that you can choose to start with.

Gothic and Neo-Gothic.
Comparison of Nazi and Soviet art.
Can abstract art be decoded?
The art of disgusting.
Bauhaus movement.
Surrealist movement.
Photography as art.
History and origin of Abstract Expressionism.
Similarities and differences between Claude Monnet and Edouard Manet.
How cultural identity affects the creation of art?
Breaking stereotypes through art and literature.
Limitations of the performance art.
Mysterious photography and artwork of Vivian Maier.
Jazz music of the 19th century.
Hidden meanings in the famous paintings.

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Modern Art Topics

Modern art consists of interesting movements, styles, and forms. Choose any of the below topics to write on.

The abstract expressionism movement.
Pablo Picasso, founder of cubism.
Impressionism Vs. Cubism.
Development of American pop art.
Is contemporary art merely a way for greedy capitalists to make money?
Political cartoons as an art form.
Are people scared of modern art?
History and techniques of printmaking.
The definition of “Philosophy of Arts.”
The artistic styles of Art Deco.

Art History Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Writing a compare and contrast essay isn’t easy, but it allows you to learn a great deal about different time periods, artists and their work and movements, etc.

Picasso’s blue and rose periods: similarities and differences.
Baroque and Rococo design styles: compare and analyze.
Traditional vs. Modern Caribbean music.
Renaissance vs. Baroque Epoch
What are the main differences between Picasso and Leonardo Da Vinci?
Roman Vs. Greek mythology.
Venus de Milo Vs. The Thinker.
Similarities and differences between the artworks of the 18th and 19th centuries.
The artwork of India and Africa.
Styles and techniques of painting landscapes.

We have added a variety of more compare and contrast essay topics in this blog; go check it out.

Art Argumentative Essay Topics

The most significant piece of art of the 20th century and why?
Graffiti art or vandalism?
Banksy artist or vandal?
What contributed to making Paris a center of art in the 20th century?
Why do we need art in our lives?
Why is TV becoming obsolete?
Significance of print media in current times.
Advantages of listening to classical music.
How painting can help treat mental illnesses.

Need more argumentative essay topics? Check out our blog on argumentative essay topics .

Cause and Effect Essay Topics on Art

Did iconoclasm affect Muslim art, and how?
Causes of the decline of art in Medieval Europe?
How has the cultural revolution influenced Chinese art?
The invention of the printing press changed the status of the mass media. Examples must be provided to support your position.
Raphael’s influence on the art of the Renaissance.
Influence of Hitler’s work on literature.
Influence of WWI of art.
Influence of WWII on literature.
How the work of William Blake paved the path for modern art?
How did art influence the people during Hitler’s time?

Art Topics For Presentation

The evolution of street art: From graffiti to mainstream acceptance.
The impact of technology on contemporary art.
Art therapy: The healing power of creativity.
Women artists throughout history: Challenging gender norms and making their mark.
Exploring cultural appropriation in art: Appreciation vs. exploitation.
Art and environmental activism: Raising awareness through creative expression.
The influence of ancient civilizations on modern art.
Art as a form of storytelling: Narrative elements in visual arts.
The role of art museums in preserving and promoting artistic heritage.
The intersection of art and science: The fusion of creativity and innovation.

Performing Arts Topics

The influence of dance in different cultures
The evolution of musical theater
The impact of technology on contemporary dance performances.
The portrayal of social issues in modern dance
The role of improvisation in theater
Exploring different styles of classical music
The significance of costume design in theater
How music influences our feelings and experiences.
The power of storytelling through puppetry
The fusion of traditional and contemporary elements in multicultural performances.

Literary Arts Topics

Exploring the use of symbols to convey deeper meanings.
The evolution of the novel: From its early forms to modern genres.
The impact of postcolonial literature
Exploring magical realism in literature: Blending reality and the fantastical.
The role of satire in social critique
Women writers and the feminist literary movement
The portrayal of mental health in literature
The influence of mythology in contemporary literature
Analyzing the portrayal of bleak future societies.
The power of storytelling in oral traditions

Art and Society Topics

Art as a vehicle for social change
How art shapes and revitalizes communities.
Exploring the intersection of art, capitalism, and consumer culture.
Analyzing instances of art being censored or restricted due to societal or political factors.
Examining the benefits and challenges of arts education in schools.
Exploring the therapeutic benefits of engaging with art.
How artists express and challenge notions of race, gender, sexuality, and culture.
Examining the relationship between art, digital media, and technological advancements.
Exploring how artists respond to and raise awareness about ecological issues.
Analyzing art projects that promote dialogue, collaboration, and inclusivity within communities.

Art Topics for Personal Development

Art journaling for self-reflection and growth
The power of imagination and artistic expression to manifest personal goals and aspirations.
Exploring art techniques as a form of meditation and cultivating present moment awareness.
Using art-making as a means to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance well-being.
Creating visual representations of personal stories and experiences.
Using different art mediums to process and communicate emotions.
Utilizing collage or mixed media techniques to visually represent personal goals and aspirations.
Engaging in artistic activities to explore personal identity, values, and beliefs.
Using art-making as a means to cope with and overcome challenges and adversity.
Experimenting with different art styles and mediums to discover one's unique artistic voice.

Miscellaneous Art Essay Topics

Contemporary artists, you like and why?
What is your opinion on true art: what is it?
If you are an artist, how would you explain your kind of art to others?
Does life and nature influence art?
What are your views on art therapy?
Difference between a French and American artist.
History and evaluation of animation
Significance of censorship
Origin of Crop art
Urban sculptures and their significance
What is fiber art?
The emergence of textile arts
History of graphic novels
Interactive art of modern times
Introduction and significance of tramp art?

In conclusion, choosing an art topic is an important and personal decision for an art student. It's a process that involves self-reflection, exploration, and experimentation. By reflecting on your interests, researching, and seeking inspiration, you can discover the subjects that truly ignite your creativity.

Remember, there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to art topics. The key is to follow your passion and enjoy the journey of artistic exploration.

So, whichever topic you choose, just add it to our AI essay generator and get an AI essay for reference.

Or, if you need help writing a high-quality paper, feel free to contact 5StarEssays.com expert essay writers. Simply request ‘ write my essay ’ and get assistance for all types of academic essays and papers.

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As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.

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Art Project Ideas: A Guide to Subject Matter Selection

Last Updated on September 1, 2023

Looking for art project ideas? A theme for high school art boards? Whether specialising in Painting, Graphic Design, Photography, textiles or Sculpture, most senior high school Art students begin by selecting a topic for their portfolio, coursework or examination project. It is a decision that many find difficult, whether due to a lack of inspiration, an inability to discern between two or more possible ideas or a general misunderstanding about the type of topic that is appropriate. Below is a step-by-step guide that IGCSE, GCSE, A Level Art students (and those from many other high school Art qualifications) may use to help brainstorm, evaluate and select an outstanding subject, topic or theme for their high school Art project.

Step 1: Brainstorm Ideas

Write down all subjects, themes, places, things, activities or issues that are personally relevant and that matter to you (even random, unexpected things, such as a the art room sink, or heirloom knives and forks in your kitchen drawer). The purpose of any artwork is to communicate a message: to comment or scream or sing about the world in which we find ourselves in. If there is no emotion behind the work, there is no driving force – nothing to direct and shape your decision making. Write down the things that you care about; that move you.
Include topics that are unusual, challenging, controversial, gritty or inspiring: those that fill you with passion . Students who select substantial, heartfelt issues that they really believe in are more likely to achieve great results than those who choose aesthetically pleasing but superficial subjects. A tried and true subject can still be approached in an individual and innovative way, but choosing a topic that is novel and fresh has certain advantages. Strong, contentious issues are those which the assessors themselves have a reaction to; they provoke an emotive response. Such topics make the markers and moderators sit up and take notice: it gives them ample opportunity to see the merit within your work. ( Example shown below: Photography Coursework folio boards by Louise Hutt ).

READ NEXT: How to make an artist website (and why you need one)

Painting Coursework folio boards by Lauren Day from Green Bay High School :

Painting Coursework folio boards by Michaela Coney of Waiuku College :

Note: For inspiration about how to present your brainstorming, you may like to view How to make a Mind Map: creative examples for high school Art students .

Step 2: Evaluate your ideas

Think carefully about the topics that you have written down. Use the flowchart at the end of this article to evaluate your ideas.

Eliminate those which are ‘cheesy’ (i.e involving pink hearts and Brad Pitt), insincere (i.e. a theme of ‘World Peace’, when really this is something you couldn’t care less about) and overly “pretty” or lacking in substance (i.e. bunches of roses). This doesn’t mean that a traditionally ‘beautiful’ subject cannot be successful, (see the cupcake example below by a student from Sir William Ramsay School – image sourced from Dan China ), but think carefully before proceeding with such a topic.

Eliminate those subjects which you are unable to explore first-hand. In order to create artworks, you will need access to high quality imagery. For example, if you are exploring the way in which humans kill animals in order to consume their meat, access to the inside of a butchery or abattoir/freezing works is likely to be essential. Reliance on photographs taken by others is rarely a good idea. No matter how awesome a theme appears, if you are unable to explore any aspect of it firsthand, it is very unlikely that you will be able to do the topic justice. Remember that you will likely need to return to your source imagery several times during your high school course, so a submission based upon a particular plant that only blooms for a couple of weeks out of the year or a view of your village during a rare winter snow storm is very risky. The ideal GCSE, IGCSE or Art A-Level subject is one that you can physically return to, whenever you need – to draw, photograph or experience first-hand.
Remove the topics for which the source material is excessively simple, i.e. containing only a few forms, textures and patterns. A small pile of cardboard boxes, for example, might inspire a great drawing, but if this is the starting point for an entire year’s AS or A2 work, the straight lines, rectangular forms and flat box surfaces are unlikely to provide enough visual variety to explore for months on end. Overly busy source material, on the other hand, is not an issue – it is much easier to simplify form and detail than it is to add back in.
Eliminate those topics for which the source material lacks aesthetic appeal . Do not mistake ‘aesthetic appeal’ for pretty. In fact, some of the ‘ugliest’ things can be stunningly rendered in an artwork or design. Art teachers (and artists in general) often speak of finding the beauty in the ordinary or mundane: seeing the magic in that which others have discarded or forgotten (see the electrical plug painting below by Amy Thellusson from Notting Hill and Ealing High School ) . This does not mean, however, that anything is suitable for your A Level topic. Some scenes are genuinely unattractive and unsuitable visually. Certain object combinations (due to their particular shapes, colours or textures) are extremely difficult to compose in a pleasing way. Similarly, some items – particularly disproportionate drawings or designs by others – are very challenging for a high school student to replicate. A drawing, for example, of a doll that is proportioned unusually, may appear to be an inaccurate, badly proportioned drawing of an ordinary doll. In other words, the examiner may not realise that the doll is proportioned badly – they may think you simply cannot draw. (If you find ascertaining the aesthetic potential of your ideas difficult, discuss this further with your art teacher. Alternatively, you are welcome to join the discussion in our forum).

Eliminate topics which are common or over-done (unless you have an original way of approaching this topic) . It doesn’t matter if some others have explored the same topic as you… With the millions of people in the world, it is highly unlikely that you will be the only one to explore a particular theme (in fact, this is beneficial, as you can learn from others…and no one will make art exactly like you), but, if EVERYONE is doing it – if it is a topic that the examiners have seen a hundred times before, you should think carefully about whether you have something sufficiently new and original to say about it.
Ensure that the topic you choose is something that you really care about and which can sustain your interest for a year . If you have more than one topic left on your list, pick the thing that you care about the most.

A Level Photography piece by Kate Dunn from Cobham Hall School :

Painting Coursework folio boards by Melanie Nieuwoudt from Green Bay High School :

A quick guide for evaluating ideas

The information in this article has been summarised in a flowchart, which can be used as a quick tool to evaluate GCSE, IGCSE and A Level Art ideas. The top section of the diagram contains general areas to trigger brainstorming; the bottom outlines the evaluation process.

A good GCSE, IGCSE, NCEA or A level Art coursework topic keeps you enthusiastic, creative and eager to create more. It eliminates the need for slavish self-discipline. It opens the door for you become a ‘real’ artist – making art about what matters to you.

When first published, this article received over eight hundred comments from students looking for direction and assistance with their high school art projects. S ome of these comments have been published below. It is hoped that the answers provide valuable insight for others.

Levi: I am struggling with a theme for my art A2 Level Unit 3. I was wondering if you can advise. I was thinking of ‘seasons’ but cannot find much information or artists to research and this is important because I have to write an essay on the artist. I do not think this is a theme with enough information. I did very well in my AS Level and got an A on both units. They were on Natural Form (Fish) and Waterways. There was so much information on both these themes. I did the Day of the Dead festival for my GCSE and got an A*. I am trying to find a theme which has lots of information but am struggling. Thank you for your help.

Amiria: Firstly, I want to stress that the most important factor should be how personally relevant your theme is: the quantity of information available on this topic is much less crucial. The truth is that these days – with the prevalence of information available on the internet – it is very rare to find a topic which you are unable to find sufficient material. If you are finding it difficult to source information that relates to a ‘seasons’ theme, this may be because you are being too general in your investigations. I suggest that you think about what aspect the topic you are most interested in… For example, are you merely drawn to aesthetic aspects, i.e. tawny autumn leaves or a barren winter scene…or do you wish to conduct a more theoretical investigation – i.e. exploring ideas of regeneration / cycle of life etc? Once you have narrowed it down (hopefully to something that is gritty, meaningful and personal) begin Google searches for artwork that fits this specific subject. Hopefully this will provide you with more results.

If you would like to abandon the seasons theme altogether, and wish to start with something new, it is difficult for me to make suggestions as I don’t know your interests and the possibilities are endless! If you are really stuck, take something ordinary – and do something unusual to it. For example, one of my most recent students took fruit, waited until it rotted and decayed…and then strung them up on the classroom wall using nails and string. She then took savage and beautiful photographs of these, and began the most intricate and detailed drawings and paintings. There were many painters of fruit whose work was helpful to her. There was also an endless supply of crazy, contemporary modern artists whose exploratory use of media was of relevance.

Forget about quantity of information. If you care enough about something, you will be able to write an outstanding essay with ease.

What moves you? What matters to you most in the world?

SOPHIA: I’m about to begin my AS Art and we have been asked to produce work over the summer on the topic they have given us. Although I won the art prize last year I am struggling with ideas for our theme which is Manmade. I like fine art and my previous works have been detailed forms of nature including horses, plants etc. To start with I have been looking at Leonardo da Vinci and have been inspired by his sketches of human anatomy, but I don’t know how to develop this into my own ideas keeping within the Manmade topic. Also after reading your tips I realise it has to convey emotion. Help!

AMIRIA: Hi Sophia, thanks for your question. Your enjoyment of drawing natural forms, horses, plants and human anatomy drawings suggests you particularly like curving, organic forms – perhaps with a preference (at this stage) for realistic depiction. There are plenty of ‘Manmade’ items that also fit into this category, i.e. curving architectural forms; ornate utensils / kitchenware (old kettles etc); woven baskets; intricate jewellery pieces… If you do a Google image search on ‘curving organic form’ you get a good idea of the huge range of beautiful man made forms that fit into the aesthetic you seem to like… which could thus form the basis of an AS portfolio. The possibilities, however, are endless, so it is better to ask yourself what things really matter to you – what do you want to communicate to the world? Your work is often best driven not just by an emotion, but by a message (which will then provoke an emotional response in you and viewers). What bothers you? What enrages you? Once you have an idea, you can then start to think about ways of exploring this aesthetically…

ABIGAIL: Hi! I am really struggling to find ideas for my theme of landscape this year. Last year I received an Excellence for my NCEA Art board which was to do with humans and birds. My art often surrounds humans and animals but I cannot do that with the theme this year so I am really stuck! I was thinking of doing Rural vs Urban but as I am in love with Venice and other historical buildings that I feel the need to paint them for my art board!! I don’t know how I could incorporate these ideas (rural, urban, historical buildings) or if you have any other ideas for the theme of Landscape it would be MUCH appreciated! Thank you!

AMIRIA: What particular aspect of a Rural vs Urban theme would you focus on? The encroachment of urban sprawl on the rural environment? Conflict at the boundary where the two meet? It is possible that historical buildings could play a part in an urban/rural theme if you looked at, for example, vines/creepers crawling over decrepit buildings / nature taking back a manmade structure etc. However, such interpretations are reasonably common and don’t seem to be that personal – i.e. historical buildings seem to be something a teenager might like aesthetically, but don’t appear to have much personal relevance (correct me if I am wrong).

When thinking about a ‘landscape’ theme, remember that the word landscape can be interpreted quite widely…i.e. it doesn’t necessarily limit you to ‘pretty’ outdoor scenes, but could involve digital/virtual landscapes and how these interact with the physical world…or perhaps human despair / disenchantment manifested in dirty, graffiti-filled urban alleyways. Whatever the case, as suggested in my responses to the above two questions, you need to begin by identifying issues that really matter to you and using these as the starting point for exploring landscape. For example (this is just a random idea, to illustrate the point), you might be disenchanted with the rigidity of school life and how the education system has been reduced to spoon feeding students with small capsules of information. You could then begin to explore this idea through the depiction of schoolyard landscapes – focusing perhaps on grid-like patterns (repetition of rectangular classroom windows etc) in dreary disconnected architecture. As your work progress, you might end up abstracting the architectural forms in an effort to better represent/communicate/express your ideas.

If you find it easier to start with a physical subject and let the ideas flow from there, then select something unusual and interesting. Not a pretty building or a valley containing flowers – but perhaps a cattle carcass decaying in long grass or a smashed up car abandoned on a verge. It’s not the macabre is necessarily more appropriate than pleasant imagery, but that the world is already filled with a million depictions of pretty landscapes. Unless you are an absolutely amazing artist,you are doing yourself a disservice by selecting a common, ‘pretty’ subject. And even if you are absolutely amazing, it can be far more exciting to pick something unusual and crazy!

HAYA: Hey! I’m having a problem choosing a topic with my five page (AS Level) portfolio. I prefer natural over manmade. Any idea as to what I can base my five pages on? So far I’ve been working on different postures of the human body wrapped with drapery in an attempt to symbolise repression – a characteristic well known to myself as I’m a repressive person. Throughout my work, the true identity of the model is hidden. I was wondering if my topic needs to be developed any further? Also, I was thinking of basing my work on something manmade…but I don’t know what I could possibly do under manmade. Your site is absolutely awesome. Thank you for all your help!

AMIRIA: I really like your repression theme. It has a lot of potential. You could explore such things as the results of repression and whether this damages you / makes you withdraw or put up facades / conceal your true personality etc. The theme may lend itself to using acrylic gel mediums etc to achieve transparency and translucent layers…exploring what is seen / what is not seen / what is hidden etc.

It is difficult to say whether your topic needs to be developed further without seeing your work – but the body of work as a whole should show development…from a starting point towards a resolved work. If your project seems to be simply repeating the same subject from a different angle etc it is time for ideas / compositional strategies to be resolved. Looking to other artists for inspiration is often the best way to move forward if you are stuck.

You might like to select manmade items that are connected to both fabric and ideas of repression …i.e. metal buckles on clothing and stitched ties / cords / zips etc – all of which invoke ideas such as tying shut / restraining / confining etc. These objects have more structure and rigidity than merely draped fabric and the human form (and would thus provide you with some welcome variety) but also can be tied in nicely with your earlier themes. Good luck!

ASHLEIGH: For my AS Art I am doing Urban Decay. It has to have some kind of story developing through to the end but I cannot think of anything????

Amiria: There are many possibilities… Literal interpretations, such as an area of town that is physically falling into disrepair and has some sort of history or story attached to it…i.e. perhaps a thriving industrial area that became disused for some reason and then became overtaken by graffiti / vandalism etc. Alternatively you could explore notions of communities being dispersed due to computers …i.e. the desertion (decay) of traditional urban social centres (i.e. malls / movie theatres) due to people favouring internet-based interactions from the warmth of their own homes…

Perhaps you could zoom right and look at things on a near molecular level…extreme close-ups, visually analysing, for example, the rust and erosion that creeps across metallic surfaces – or mites that eat into timber. These could lend themselves to beautiful abstract works. The ‘story’ in this case might be to do with the circle of life and how physical forms are transient and illusory with no clear boundaries…the ebb and flow of atoms etc…

Another option might be the beauty in decay? Discovering something that has rotted away only to expose something beautiful…

INAPICKLE: Hi! I have to COMPLETELY rethink my original idea for my folio board (NCEA Level 3) and I’m really struggling for conceptual ideas. At the moment my new idea is the loss of innocence/complete mental destruction and changed perception of the world through the experiences of war, told from a third person point of view with a solider as the main character (like a narrative). Also weaved into that idea is the idea of being so easily manipulated/brainwashed by the government into being merely a playing piece/slaughtered in their ‘game’ of war.

Help! I need your advice, am I on the right track? Or am I completely off?? I fear that the idea is way too cliche AND I’m also unable to take photos of the subject matter first hand…

AMIRIA: Your ideas are not new, as such, in that others have explored them before, but I don’t think they are clichÃ©. There is a slight risk that they could be presented in an obvious, literal ‘this is what I am saying’ type way, but this applies to most topics.

In terms of firsthand subject matter, I would be hesitant about only using 3rd party images – and would be particularly careful if they are just commonly available photographs (i.e. those off the internet). You should use first hand subject matter if at all possible. For example, do you have relatives who were in a war? Can you get hold of any of their old memorabilia? Perhaps you could take photographs at a museum or an old bunker? If you were thinking more along the lines of Americans in Iraq etc, then newspaper clippings / magazine articles – perhaps televisions or computer screens with online news stories – could be used as physical objects in themselves (i.e. with you initially creating a pile of photographs or pinning articles to a wall…and then drawing them, with all the creases / shadows / three-dimensional elements). You could even take images and digitally superimpose them onto other surfaces (i.e. find a demolished building or something that appears to be some war scene ruin type thing…photograph it beautifully, then digitally superimpose other war based images over the top of it…

There are some instances where third party source material is appropriate (usually when the resulting work is a far departure from the initial images)…but I would be hesitant. Discuss it carefully with your teacher. They will know your work and whether it will work for your situation.

KIMIKO: I’ve recently started my NCEA Level 3 Painting board and I’m very confused and muddled with ideas. I’m worried that my theme may be too superficial or not easy for others to understand, to the point where I’m thinking of redoing my boards. My theme right now is Arizona (desert), which was inspired by a dream I had of an open road journey. The paintings that I have already done have a lot of vast open spaces to show freedom, buffalo skulls and dark colours which depict death of the land, a main character (a girl), her tattoos and an old school car. I plan on making my second board more surreal and reintroducing this coyote as a spirit guide (maybe this would create the more dreamlike qualities I’m trying to show)? I am also worried that I might be trying to cram too many themes or ideas into one making it complicated. Any ideas or pointers would be such a life saver.

AMIRIA: Hi Kimiko. Your theme sounds cool and crazy (in a good way), but it seems to bring together a whole range of elements and ideas, so it doesn’t surprise me that you are floundering a little.

Firstly, I just want to check whether you have (or have had) firsthand access to any of your subject matter? Have you been to the Arizona desert? Have you seen and photographed real buffalo skulls? Is the car a real one that you have access to? Is the girl you? Even if these things are ultimately depicted in way that is stylised and surrealistic, it helps immensely to have quality source material the beginning. Could you substitute cow skulls for buffalo skulls (your school science dept should have some)? You want the examiners to believe that this is something personal to you – you don’t want them to suspect you have produced the whole thing from second hand imagery sourced off the internet. There have been some good folios based on second hand imagery – i.e. pictures from comic books – but these are rare, and in these cases the students cleverly manipulate the image to ‘make them their own’.

The second thing that concerns me a little is the large range of objects/scenes within your work. For most students, becoming proficient with the representation of just one or two items within a year’s work is enough of a challenge, let alone trying to become competent at drawing landscapes, bones, human figures, cars, and (now possibly) animals all at the same time. I would probably refrain from introducing a coyote, especially if this is something that has not appeared anywhere elsewhere in your board for this reason…but it is difficult to say without seeing your work. If you are a strong drawer and can cope with a wide range of forms, it might be appropriate, as long as it could be integrated seamlessly within your board. What does your teacher think?

The real issue at hand, however, is whether you have established what your work is actually about. If it is hard for others to understand, it may be because you have not fully defined yourself what you are trying to say. You mention that you are trying to depict a dreamlike state, and also freedom and death of the land, but how are these things connected? Your art needs to be more than a simple depiction of a landscape you dreamed about, with hinted emotion. It needs to have a real message and purpose. What was the dream really about? What is the purpose of the landscape? What is the artwork trying to say?

Once you have established this, it should be easier to know how to proceed with your work. For example, if you are trying to communicate the thrill and fearful freedom that might follow an apocalyptic catastrophe (that is the result of humanity’s careless attitude towards protecting our planet, for example), with the earth is ‘wiped clean’ and the landscape as we know it gone, leaving humans free of the shackles of modern society and eking out a primitive existence etc… then little details in the desert sand could give hints at what happened and what has been lost – perhaps collaged littered remnants of society… The expressions, clothing and tattoos on the girl could also all contain clues about what has happened…

JADE: I’m having a little difficulty deciding on a project for my A2 Fine Art project. I begin this project in September but we have been advised to start brainstorming ideas and collecting relevant sources during the summer holidays to contribute to the development and stability of my project. This project is basically a personal experimentation project, so I can literally do anything for this project which is why I’m struggling slightly to find an idea. I am generally quite an indecisive person unfortunately! So when I think of an idea, it has to be one in which I feel I will not ever get bored of and a project that essentially can be broadened. In my previous projects, I’ve always had trouble with keeping with projects consistently flowing. I tend to eventually run out of different ideas!

I have been thinking about doing ‘the seven deadly sins’ as a project, and I’ve done some research on this topic. Personally, I think this could be an interesting theme to explore. However, my concern is that my own research and gathering of sources (i.e. original images) may be limited. If you have any suggestions I would be very grateful. If you also have any other suggestions for me going in a different direction or topic, I would also much appreciate any ideas. I enjoy painting, sketching, chalk and I love mixed media work. I’d like to find a project in which I can incorporate all mediums.

Thank you for your time, i’m sorry this post is so long! I find this site very helpful and encouraging, so thanks.

AMIRIA: Well done for beginning your preparation early – your teacher will be very happy! My feeling is that the seven deadly sins is a very broad topic. Even just one of the sins would be sufficient for an A2 theme. It is much better to have a narrow, well executed body of work, rather than a broad project that is scattered and incoherent. The key to picking a topic is to find one that is really important to you (on an emotional level, not just an intellectual level). For example, you could pick gluttony if you (or someone you are close to) struggles with dieting/eating/weight; or greed if people you are close to work themselves into the ground in chase of money, whilst sacrificing other aspects of their lives (i.e. a father who is always at the office and doesn’t spend time with his family); or envy if there is something you desperately long for…or someone who you see is being destroyed by envy etc… In other words, be driven by an issue that is really relevant in your life.

In terms of your desire to use many mediums – this is a great idea for all topics. Experimentation and trialling a range of mediums is beneficial for all topics, so don’t let this worry or influence your topic selection.

Please note that we are no longer able to provide detailed assistance with queries, due to the expansion of this site and the number of queries that are received.

If you know others who would benefit from this article, please share using the social media buttons below!

Amiria has been an Art & Design teacher and a Curriculum Co-ordinator for seven years, responsible for the course design and assessment of student work in two high-achieving Auckland schools. She has a Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Bachelor of Architecture (First Class Honours) and a Graduate Diploma of Teaching. Amiria is a CIE Accredited Art & Design Coursework Assessor.

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100 Sketchbook Prompts Your Students Will Love

If you’re anything like me, you can never get enough good sketchbook ideas. I’m always looking for ways to engage students so that they truly want to work in their sketchbooks. Whether you use sketchbooks for project planning, skill development, brainstorming, or something else, you’ll find ideas here that will work for you. My sketchbook assignments and prompts take an “all of the above” approach, making the following list well-rounded.

Want an eBook with all these prompts? Click 100 Sketchbook Prompts eBook to find it!

The list covers many bases and is organized by category. There are prompts about animals, food, people, and other things that will spark interest among students. This list is geared toward secondary students, but you’ll find a lot here that will work for younger students as well. Take a look and see what will work best for you and your students. Add your own favorite sketchbook assignment in the comments below!

Click here to download the list!

These prompts are an amazing place to start. However, knowing how to implement the prompts and manage students with sketchbooks is important, too! If you’d like ideas to help your students develop their creativity, drawings skills, and information retention, be sure to check out the following two PRO Packs, which can be found in our PRO Learning .

Sketchbook Ideas that Really Work
Implementing Sketchnotes in the Art Room

100 Sketchbook Prompts Your Students Will Love

Draw someone you sit by in an odd pose.
Draw family members with things that are important to them.
Draw yourself (or someone else) painting toenails.
Find a quiet place in a crowd. Draw the crowd.
Draw a relative by the light cast from a TV/Phone/Computer or other screen.
Make a portrait of yourself in twenty years. Or in fifty years. Or both.
Draw a masked man (or woman) that is not a superhero.
Draw the ugliest baby you can imagine.
Draw two sports figures–one in a dynamic pose, one in a static pose.
Draw two self-portraits with odd expressions.
Draw something or someone you love.
Draw hair. A lot of it.
Take a picture of someone near you on a bus or in a car. Draw them.
Draw an animal eating another animal.
Draw your art teacher in a fight with an animal.
Draw an animal playing a musical instrument.
There is an animal living in one of your appliances. Draw it.
Draw a dead bird in a beautiful landscape.
Draw something from a pet’s point of view.
Draw an animal taking a bath.
Draw an animal taking a human for a walk.
Combine 3 existing animals to create a completely new creature.
Draw a family portrait. Plot twist: It is a family of insects or animals.
Draw the most terrifying animal you can imagine. Or the most adorable.
Draw a pile of dishes before they get washed.
Tighten a C-Clamp on a banana. Draw it.
Draw a slice of the best pizza you have ever seen.
Draw junk food and the wrapper.
Draw your favorite food.
Create your own restaurant. Draw the restaurant, your executive chef, and a 12-item menu.
Draw the ingredients or process of your favorite recipe.
Draw salt and pepper shakers.
Draw fresh fruit or vegetables, or something fresh from the oven.
Draw a salad.
Draw the oldest thing in your refrigerator.
Draw a piece of fruit every day until it becomes rotten.
Draw everything on a restaurant table.
Draw what is in the rearview mirror of the car.
Draw moving water. Draw still water.
Draw an object floating.
Make a drawing of all of your drawing materials.
Find a trash can. Draw its contents.
Draw tools that belong to a certain profession.
Draw three objects and their environments. One of the three should be in motion.
Draw the interior of a mechanical object. Zoom in, focus on details and shading.
Create three drawings of messes you have made.
Draw five objects with interesting textures: wood grain, floors, tiles, walls, fabric, etc.
Draw a collection of purses, wallets, or bags.
Draw your favorite well-loved object or childhood toy.
Draw a watch or another piece of jewelry.
Draw something hideous that you keep for sentimental reasons.
Draw something with a mirror image.

Technical Skill/Skill Development

Draw all the contents of your junk drawer with one continuous line.
Make a detailed drawing of a rock.
Draw a dark object in a light environment.
Draw a light object in a dark environment.
Make a detailed drawing of five square inches of grass.
Draw a transparent object.
Draw a translucent object.
Do several studies of eyes, noses, and mouths in a variety of poses.
Draw an interesting object from three different angles.
Value Studies–Draw three eggs and part of the carton with a strong light source.
Draw three metallic objects that reflect light. Focus on highlights and reflections.
Refraction–Create two drawings of separate objects partially submerged in water.
Make three drawings (your choice of subject) using materials with which you are not familiar.
Draw a piece of patterned fabric with folds.
Draw a bridge and all of its details.

Creativity/Originality

Draw yourself as an original superhero.
Make a drawing that looks sticky.
Draw a mysterious doorway or staircase.
Draw an empty room. Make it interesting.
Draw a flower. Make it dangerous.
Draw an object melting.
Draw an imaginary place, adding all kinds of details.
Draw a gumball machine that dispenses anything but gumballs.
Danger! Draw yourself in a dangerous situation.
You are on the back of the bus. Figure out who is with you, where you are going, and why. Illustrate and explain.
Draw what’s under your bed (real or imagined).
Draw the most incredible game of hide-and-seek you can imagine.
Create a new sport. You can improve an existing sport, combine two existing sports, or come up with something completely new.

Open-Ended Themes

Make a drawing that is totally truthful.
Make a drawing that lies all over the place.
Make a drawing that is completely and utterly impossible.
Story Illustration: Fix a story that you don’t like, or reflect/improve upon one you do.
Let someone else choose your subject and tell you what to draw.
Draw your greatest fear.
Use song lyrics, quotes, or poetry to inspire a drawing.
Find the three most useless objects you can and draw them.
Draw an interesting form of transportation.
Draw something for which you are thankful.
Go somewhere new and draw what you see.
Draw something that can’t be turned off.
Draw something soothing.
Draw something you think sounds or smells incredible.
Draw something that needs fixing.
Draw something you’ve always wanted.
Draw something out of place.
Draw something that should have been invented by now.
Draw something you keep putting off, or something that causes you to procrastinate.

Does this list inspire you to take some sketchbook assignments head on in your art room? Or maybe the opposite is true and you are finding that you feel underprepared to teach drawing skills. Maybe you fall somewhere in between and you just need a little more inspiration to tweak your drawing curriculum. These are all great reasons to take a peek at our course, Studio: Drawing . The class is jam-packed with hands-on learning experiences, advanced technique tutorials, and opportunities to share and learn with art teachers just like you.

What are your favorite sketchbook prompts to use? How do you use sketchbooks in your classroom?

Magazine articles and podcasts are opinions of professional education contributors and do not necessarily represent the position of the Art of Education University (AOEU) or its academic offerings. Contributors use terms in the way they are most often talked about in the scope of their educational experiences.

Timothy Bogatz

Tim Bogatz is AOEU’s Content & PD Event Manager and a former AOEU Writer and high school art educator. He focuses on creativity development, problem-solving, and higher-order thinking skills in the art room.

Back to Basics: Spilling the Tea on How to Teach Observational Drawing with Confidence

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50 Art Prompt Ideas to Ignite Your Creativity and Fuel Your Artistic Passion

50+ Massive List of Art Prompt Ideas to Ignite Your Creativity and Fuel Your Artistic Passion

Why use art prompts?

Every artist experiences a creative block at some point in their artistic journey. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, it can be difficult to come up with new ideas and concepts to create unique artwork. Fortunately, there are many art prompt ideas that can inspire and motivate you to create new artworks. In this article, we will provide you with more than 50 art prompt ideas that will help you to exercise your creativity and boost your artistic mind.

What are art prompts?

Art prompts are guidelines that provide a starting point for artists to create art around a certain concept or theme. They can be thought of as a form of inspiration to help artists break free from creative blocks or to spark their imagination.

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Artists may use prompts for a variety of reasons. Some may find that prompts help them to generate ideas or explore new techniques. Others may use them as a way to challenge themselves and step out of their artistic comfort zone. Prompts can also be useful for artists who struggle with getting started on a new piece, as they provide a clear direction and focus.

One of the great things about art prompts is that they can be adapted to any medium or art form. Whether an artist works with traditional painting and drawing materials, or prefers to work digitally, prompts can be used to inspire creativity in any setting.

Overall, art prompts can be a valuable tool for artists at any stage in their creative journey. They can help to keep the creative juices flowing, challenge artists to explore new ideas and techniques, and provide a framework for generating new and exciting artwork.

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Art Prompt Ideas to Follow

If you're looking for some prompt ideas to help you break through your creative block, here are some to try out:

Draw a still life of objects on your desk

Create a landscape featuring your favorite color

Illustrate your favorite childhood memory

Draw a portrait of a friend or family member

Paint a picture of a place you've never been to

Draw a creature from your imagination

Sketch an interior of a room you love

Paint a scene from a favorite book or movie

Draw a portrait of someone you admire

Create an abstract piece using only your favorite colors

Creative Drawing Prompts

If you're more interested in drawing, here are some drawing prompt ideas to get you started:

Draw a self-portrait using only lines

Create a drawing of your favorite animal in a unique setting

Sketch a landscape using only geometric shapes

Draw a figure using only shadows

Illustrate a character from a favorite book or movie

Draw an object in motion

Sketch a cityscape using perspective

Create a portrait of a loved one

Draw a still life using only colored pencils

Illustrate a dream you had

Painting Prompts for Beginners

If you're new to painting, or just looking for some painting prompts to help you improve your skills, here are some to try:

Paint a landscape using only primary colors

Create a seascape using a limited palette

Paint a portrait using only complementary colors

Create an abstract piece using only black and white

Paint a scene from your favorite place

Create a piece using only warm colors

Paint a piece using only cool colors

Create a piece using a monochromatic color scheme

Paint a still life using a limited palette

Art Prompts for Art Block

If you're struggling with an art block, here are some art prompts that may help:

Draw something small and intricate

Illustrate your favorite song lyrics

Paint a picture using your non-dominant hand

Draw a portrait of someone you don't know

Create a piece using found objects

Draw a landscape using only dots

Paint a piece using only textures

Create a piece using only negative space

Draw a portrait using only one line

Fun art prompts

If you're just looking for some fun art prompts to experiment with, here are some to try:

Draw your favorite food in a unique way

Paint a scene from your favorite fairy tale

Create a piece using only glitter

Draw a portrait of an animal wearing clothing

Paint a piece using only your fingers

Create an abstract piece using only circles

Illustrate a place you've never been

Doodle something without lifting your pen.

Take a walk and draw something you saw along the way.

Draw your favorite book character.

Create a mandala.

Draw something using only straight lines.

Draw something using only curved lines.

Incorporating Art Prompts into Your Creative Practice

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Art prompts are a great way to expand your creative practice and challenge yourself to try new things. They can be especially helpful for breaking through creative blocks or getting started when you're feeling stuck. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, there's always something new to explore with art prompts.

To incorporate art prompts into your creative practice, try setting aside dedicated time each day or week to work on a new prompt. You can use a journal or sketchbook to keep track of your progress and reflect on each prompt you complete. Consider sharing your work on social media or with a supportive community of artists to get feedback and encouragement.

Art prompts are a valuable tool for artists of all levels, providing endless opportunities for creative exploration and growth. By challenging yourself with new subjects and techniques, you can develop your skills and unlock your full creative potential. So next time you're feeling stuck, try working on a few of these art prompts to jumpstart your inspiration and get back into the flow of creating.

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Get Your Creative Juices Flowing With Art Ideas for Drawing, Painting, and Beyond

Photo: Stock Photos from Yulia elf_inc Tropina/Shutterstock

The possibilities with art are endless. Drawing, painting, sculpture, embroidery—and any combination of them—means infinite opportunities to push yourself to make new things. But with so many choices of medium and technique, where do you even start? If you are finding your choices completely overwhelming, let us help with some art ideas .

While this is not an exhaustive list of creative ideas, we’ve included many of our favorite media from acrylic paint to pencil drawing to embroidery to polymer clay. The media can stand alone as their own art projects, but if you’re feeling adventurous, think about combining two or more of them. Drawing and painting techniques are similar and can easily result in stunning mixed media pieces; don’t be afraid, however, to think outside the box and combine materials in an unconventional way, such as embroidery and polymer clay.

No matter what style of art you choose to venture off to, keep in mind the seven elements of art —the creative building blocks that help unravel and create any type of artwork from drawing and painting to embroidery and sculpting. Line, color, form, shape, value, space, and texture are the seven key elements of art that frequently complement, overlap, inform, and harmonize with one another. Having an understanding of these seven elements can make it easier to create your own works of art, whether it be painting, drawing, sculpture, design, or architecture.

Scroll down for creative art ideas. They are divided by type of art, and for many subjects—particularly drawing and painting—we’ve got even more ideas than listed here.

Get your creative juices flowing with these easy art ideas you can do at home.

Photo: Stock Photos from David Ferencik/Shutterstock

When it comes to drawing, the sky's the limit on potential subject matter. Whether you use pencils, pens, or charcoal, they can all help you depict ideas inspired by real life (which is a great way to practice your observation skills) or the imagination.

Ideas inspired by real life include:

your favorite houseplant
your hands or feet
the items on your coffee table
your furry friend
fruit that’s been cut in half

Fantastical ideas include:

imagining life underwater
giving an object a face
drawing a still life in the Cubist style
pop culture characters mash-up

Want more? Here are 75+ drawing ideas to get you sketching right now.

Coming up with painting ideas depends on what kind of paint you’ll be using. Watercolor and acrylic paints are the two most popular types of pigment and each has its own unique qualities. Watercolor paint, for instance, is known for its carefree fluidity while acrylics are known for drying quickly but having a lot of mediums that allow you to manipulate the pigment—like giving it a sculptural element or increasing the flow.

Photo: Stock Photos from sashafolly/Shutterstock

Take advantage of the paint’s ultra wet qualities with some of these watercolor ideas :

watercolor washes that resemble the sky
coffee or tea with steam coming off the beverage
a bouquet of roses
a fire breathing dragon
waves crashing on the shore

Photo: Stock Photos from Gudea Rares/Shutterstock

We recommend experimenting with acrylic mediums , as they will help you get the most of the paint. With them, try these acrylic painting ideas :

still life painting using gel medium
a beachy scene using sand texture medium
modeling paste to recreate a reptile
flow medium for psychedelic swirls

For more general painting ideas , check out our guide of 60+ suggestions that will inspire you to pick up a brush. Another of our favorites? Rock painting !

Many crafts utilize drawing, painting, and other fine art skills, so it’s always a good idea to practice them in order to take your crafting to the next level. But that doesn’t mean you need to be a master artist in order to be a great artisan. Learning the proper techniques of your craft will also help you to make your ideas possible—no matter how “out there” they might seem.

Photo: Stock Photos from Benjavisa Ruangvaree Art /Shutterstock

Embroidery has a variety of stitches that can help bring ideas to life. Use them to execute some of these ideas:

a set of house plants
a colorful bouquet of blooms
a portrait of your favorite animal at the zoo
a mountainscape that takes your breath away
a recreation of a famous artwork (such as Van Gogh’s Starry Night )

Learn all about embroidery (and get inspired) when you check out our ultimate guide to embroidery .

Polymer clay.

Photo: Stock Photos from Freedom Master /Shutterstock

So, what is polymer clay ? It’s a special type of clay that bakes in your oven, making it easy to craft sculptures in your home. Available in a variety of colors, polymer clay (commonly called Sculpey , although Sculpey is a brand) can also be modeled using conventional ceramic tools and adorned using acrylic paint. Sculpt some of these polymer clay ideas:

a portrait of your dog or cat
a collection of fantastic fungi
a variety of beads (make a necklace afterward)
a catch-all dish for your keys
a tiny face planter for an air plant
a faux marble pair of earrings

Learn all about polymer clay and the tools you’ll need in our handy guide.

Needle felting.

Photo: Stock Photos from Osobystist/Shutterstock

Needle felting is one of the cutest crafts around. The basic idea is that you stab wool roving into shapes which in turn become figurines and more. With just a few simple tools, you can create some of these needle felting ideas:

a fuzzy sheep
potted plants (make the planter using polymer clay)
a platter of desserts
your favorite cartoon character
a creature you'd find in the woods
a mini kitchen appliance

Check out our guide to get acquainted with needle felting .

Paper cutting.

Photo: Stock Photos from Aleoks/Shutterstock

Don’t feel like drawing on paper? Cut it out instead! Paper cutting is an age-old craft that is defined by intricate slicing made by X-ACTO knives. You’ll need a steady hand—especially if you intend on only using one sheet of paper. Try some of these ideas to start:

a bird with a sweeping wingspan
a repeating pattern
a leaf shape with small designs within it
a scene out of Alice in Wonderland
a portrait of a cat (make sure you articulate its fur)
a butterfly with an intricate wing pattern

Get paper cutting inspiration by checking out these incredible contemporary artists .

Looking for others who love drawing join our art, design, photography, and drawing club on facebook, this article has been edited and updated., related articles:.

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100+ Creative Personal Art Project Ideas

Thinking up unique personal art project ideas can be surprisingly challenging.

You know you want to do something creative but you are just not sure what!

We have all been there, in the same way a writer can get writers’ block, an artist can struggle to find inspiration for their art .

But fear not:

The Talent Bank is here to help you overcome that creative block!

To help you get the creative juices flowing, we asked our members to come up with some creative art projects ideas. We ended up with over 100:

1. Rain painting

All you need is:

Piece of thick paper or card
A rainy day

Many artists have made their name painting the natural world and there is a certain beauty to a rainy day. What better way to capture that beauty than to create a painting? Look out of the window and paint the view as the rain pours, or be a little more adventurous and go outside to your favorite place and paint it in the rain you can even let the rain land on your paper as you try to paint and see what the effect is.

2. Wall mural

Create a nature picture in your home with a beautiful wall mural. Section off an area of a wall you wish to decorate, cover with plain wallpaper lining and create a border, either with paint or leaves or twigs.

Then go for a nature walk with a basket and collect anything interesting you see along the way to take home. Then create your own indoor mural which you can also change along with the seasons. Add some glitter spray for extra sparkle!

Learn more: https://www.art-is-fun.com/mural-techniques

3. Zen garden

This is a moving piece of art that is not only fun to create, but it also clears your mind and allows your inner creativity to flow…

All you need is…

A small tray (or cardboard box)
Rocks or crystals
A fork or mini rake

Simply fill the tray or box with sand and place in the rocks and crystals then take a deep breath and create images and patterns in the sand or create whatever comes to mind or out of your hands.

This traditional Buddhist art practice is said to show the artist that everything is temporary and everything can change, be destroyed and rebuilt. It’s a lovely art project to clear the mind.

4. Make a mandala to color in

Colouring in is no longer in just the realm of children, grown-ups everywhere are embracing this peaceful art practice. Take this to another level and create your own designs to color in.

Black fine pencil
Optional – Compass and ruler

You can do this freehand, or you can create perfect shapes and circles to create your mandala. Maybe even try searching for images online for inspiration.

When you have finished, make a few copies so you can color it in and share it with friends.

Learn more: https://design.tutsplus.com/tutorials/art-therapy-how-to-draw-a-mandala–cms-29570

5. Paper cut art

This is a great way to decorate a plain wall in the home and is a very simple art project.

Some black card
Tracing paper

Find a design you like or make one up yourself (such as a bird cage, leaf design, butterfly – anything you like) and trace over it with a pencil and lay over the black card and secure the edges.

Then cut out the highlights and finally the edges to create a gorgeous paper cut art style and stick to your walls.

Learn more: https://www.happybarnet.com/crafting-challenge-blogs/2018/4/8/paper-cutting

6. Paper plate owls

This is a great crafty project to do when you have some paper plates lying around.

Simply take two paper plates, cut one in half and orange at the sides to form wings. Then decorate the plates, adding eyes and a beak. Use this to try out different techniques such as sponging, printing and decoupage.

7. Book edge decorating

Take an old book and turn it into a quirky work of art by decorating the page edges.

Lie the book flat then push the pages back to form a step, hold in place with bulldog clips then paint the edges of the pages. You can also practice gilt edging and more intricate designs.

Leave to dry then remove the clips and enjoy your quirky handywork! This is one of the coolest art project ideas for kids.

8. 3D sculptures for walls

This is an interesting technique to explore 3D art. All you need is a shoe box, some expanding plaster/foam, and an object – this could be a toy, an ornament, your hand or foot – anything you likened place in the box.

Fill with the foam and allow to set, then carefully cut around the edges to reveal two half sculptures.

Have fun trying out different objects and decorate them after.

9. Monoprint ink technique

This is a great technique to try out a new artistic style.

A piece of glass or plastic acetate
Ink & roller
White paper
An image from a magazine or comic
Ball point pen

Take the glass and cover with the ink using the roller, (be careful not to place your hands anywhere on the glass or main area from this point onwards, only hold on the edges.)

Place the blank piece of white paper over it, chose your picture from a magazine or comic and put that on the top, tape it all down so it doesn’t move, and then with a ball point pen, trace the lines of the image you want.

Then remove all the layers, leaving the white piece of paper and you will see your mono print image. Clean the glass and then use again to create more images.

More info: https://hickmandesign.co.uk/resources/printmaking-guides/monoprinting-process/

10. Drawing pin art

This is a simple way to create pictures that literally stand out.

Lots of drawing pins or colored seamstress pins

Then either sketch out a design or go freestyle and create and sculpture the image you want. Spell out names and dates out quotes to make unusual art gifts for friends and family.

11. Lego box art

This is a fantastic art project to frame your favorite Lego character.

A lego character
A square box frame
Some background images

Then open your frame and take the back card out. Place a thick piece of card over it and put to the same size.

On your piece of card, stick your Lego character on, and also add any images – such as POW!!! in cartoon letters, more Lego scenery, a city image, a quote – anything you like! Glue it all in place and leave to dry.

Then put the frame back together and there you have it, your perfect piece of Lego art!

12. Sand art

This very cool form of artistry is perfect for concept work and getting into a creative vibe.

A large tray (as big as you can find!)
Camera (if you want to keep your art!)

Then spread the sand in the tray and spread out like a canvas and add some water to the sand to make it stick.

Try out different pressures on the sand and mould it into something you like. Be sure to take pictures as you go along as they won’t last forever in the sand.

13. Make a dream catcher

The ancients used to swear by dream catchers, believing that dreams were always meaningful and are there to learn from and to help understand life.

Some willow or vines
Some string

This can be a little tricky, but you need to fold the willow into a circle and secure with string.

Then start tying the string around the edges, making loose even knots on the way around and leaving a hanging loop at the top.

Then begin a second row, placing each stitch around the loops from the first row, pulling tight as you go along.

Continue doing this on subsequent rows, working your way to the center and creating a spiders’ web out of the string until you reach the center.

Leave a small hole and tie the last stitch twice to secure. Then tie your feathers to some more string and attach to the dream catcher.

You can do this with any colors you like and add things as you go along. Then hang it above your head so it can catch all your dreams ready to analyze in the morning.

14. I want to be a tree…

Think of the green man as his face emerges from the tree… What would you look like if you were entwined with a tree? Or even a flower?

Have fun merging these two images, entwining your limbs with the branches and the leaves or fruits with your features. Take full inspiration from nature and do this in a park or woods and immerse yourself in this style of art and see what you come up with.

15. Rorschach Art

Rorschach made these images famous with his inkblot tests. Based on what you see in the images; this reveals your inner state of mind for all to see.

Have fun making your own inkblots either as art or to use them to test people!

Some thick paper
Ink (any colors)

Simply fold a piece of paper in half and open half way, then pour a little ink on one half of the page, anywhere you like – either randomly or in a pattern of your choosing. Then fold the paper over and press down to ensure the ink is as evenly matched on both sides. Then open up and leave to dry. Also try mixing different colors of ink and seeing what happens here.

16. Jumper cushions

Everyone has a favorite old jumper they just can’t’ bear to part with, so why not turn it into a cushion?

This is a very simple sewing task; all you need is:

Your favorite jumper
Some needle and thread
Some large buttons

An inner pillow (roughly around the same size as the body of the jumper)

Start by turning the jumper inside out, cutting off the sleeves and hemming and sewing up the neck and sleeves. Turn the jumper the right way out and insert your inner pillow. Then sew your 3 buttons on the back inside of the jumper, cut three matching holes in the front (remembering to hem the holes so they don’t fray) and there you having it – a lovely snuggly jumper fusion made with your favorite jumper.

If you like you can also reattach the sleeves to either side of the jumper and tie into a knot at the front to make it even more huggable!

17. Zen brush strokes

This is an amazing art activity to both practice your brush strokes and to let your creativity flow.

A large piece of paper or canvas
Various paint brushes
Black paint

Then you can either model this on traditional Buddhist art or lettering, or just go with your flow and create something from your mind. Have fun with the paint and lines and curves and try different strokes, lengths, sizes and forms and create your own Zen masterpiece.

18. Decorate some bongos

If you like a bit of drumming (or even if you don’t!) why not get yourself a pair of bongos to decorate?

Use acrylic paints to customise your drums to however you like, you can even add tassels and feathers (or even a bit of sparkle).

This is a drum you can keep and play or just use as a cool ornament.

19. Nail art

This is no longer the domain of beauty salons, all over people are embracing the mini canvases on the tips of their fingers and getting creative.

Try different styles, paints, brushes and colours and be sure to take pictures after – your very own nail art gallery!

20. Make an oilcloth

If you have a favourite duvet that is too pretty to just lie on your bed, consider making an oilcloth from it.

You’ll need a box frame to stretch the fabric across and linseed oil. Stretch the fabric evenly on your frame and coat the cloth several times in the oil allowing it to dry fully between each coat.

This isn’t the PVC coating that mass-produced ‘oilcloths’ are coated in. This is a proper old-fashioned type. The more coats you put on the more water resistant it becomes.

21. Make a clay pot

If you fancy getting your hands in some clay and being creative without recreating a scene from Ghost, get yourself some clay from a craft shop.

You don’t need a potter’s wheel to make a basic shape; think bowls, ashtray platter.

You can roll the clay into a long sausage shape and coil the clay to make shapes, roll it out flat and cut out using a craft knife with a template, or get in there and freestyle with your hands.

Just clear yourself an area, make sure you have some water to soften the clay. If you want to add patterns to the design you can use household items (just make sure they are washable) to imprint onto your clay.

You can also paint or glaze your piece if desired.

Leave to dry for 3 days.

22. Drawing pin dragon eggs

If you fancy yourself as a mother of dragons, you need your own dragon eggs.

A large polystyrene egg
Lots and lots of drawing pins

Then in neat rows, add the pins to the egged layer them together to look like scales. Keep going until the entire egg is covered, and then you can either keep plain or paint with a clear varnish to get the eggs different colours. Just hope they don’t start hatching!

23. I am a superhero

This is a great drawing activity where you can literally do anything you like! Create yourself as a superhero character. What would you wear? What would your super powers be? What would be your colours and where would you live?

Have fun creating your character and don’t forget to give yourself a really awesome name!

24. Coaster photos

This is a great project to find unique ways to display photos around the home.

Plain cork / coaster squares
Some pictures in a square size (Instagram size is perfect!)
Clear nautical varnish

Then simply glue your images to the coaster squares, leave to dry then coat with the clear varnish, leave to dry again and there you have a picture perfect set of new coasters. You can even liven up only coasters doing this or make them as gifts for friends.

25. Tie dye t-shirt

This old trick never gets old and is the perfect way to liven up an old t-shirt.

Some fabric dye
some rubber bands

Then simply bunch up the fabric and tie with the bands. Dip the ends in different colored dyes and leave to dry. Then un-tie the bands and you have your own awesome customer designed tie dye t-shirt!

26. Mug art

If you have some plain white mugs lying around, this is a great way to inject a little fun into them!

Simple get some sharpies, decorate the mug as you wish then place in the over at 200c for 45 minutes, leave to cool and you are now the proud owner of a custom designed mug!

27. Light bulb art

This simple art project will literally light up the room! All you need is a light bulb and some sharpies.

Then add some colour to the bulb, add patterns, or even go all out tiffany style… use your imagination! Leave to dry a little so you don’t smudge it then place it in the socket.

Switch on the light and stand in awe at how your little piece of art changes the entire space.

28. Bean tin candle holders

This is a great little project for garden parties and summer nights.

Wash up some old bean or soup cans and grab a sharp pointy thing and carefully piece holes in the tin. Do this randomly or create patterns and then add a tea light candle, light up and place around the garden.

They look lovely and twinkly as the light bounces off the tin and create a lovely rustic feel to the garden.

29. Paper marbling

30. This interesting technique is not only fun to do, but it gives some amazing results.

Just get a tray, add a thin layer of water and add some oil based ink.

Lay a piece of paper on the top then lift it up to create images or try dragging a comb through it to get different results. Experiment with different colours and textures of paper then leave to dry.

You can either just enjoy the technique or use this to create backgrounds to layer images which you can then build up as you wish.

31. Bubble blowing

This fun art project will take you back to your childhood as you explore this technique.

Simply get a page, some thin straws and some ink. Draw some ink into the straws and then blow ink through a straw across the paper. Try different colors and see what images you can paint with your breath.

32. Record flower pots & bowls

This is a really funky art project and it literally takes minutes.

Get some old vinyl records, a terracotta flower pot or heatproof bowl and heat the over the 110c. Place the records center over the pot or bowl and then add a weight to the middle (use blind baking beads or a muslin filled with dried beans) and place in the over.

Leave for 5-10 minutes, checking regularly for floppiness and removed when fully floppy. Quickly shape the record to ensure it has a flat bottom and even sides and then leave to dry again.

Remove from the pot or bowl and there you have it – an awesome new addition to the home!

33. Deconstructed flower art

This project is very simple, just take any flower and carefully pull it apart, the petals, stem, leaves etc.

Then arrange on a page in an abstract form and then use this as a still life to paint the image you have made. Try this and change the colours around and play around with it. This is a lot of fun and creates some amazing images.

34. Petal paper art

This project is fun and messy but the results are lovely!

Get some old newspapers and shred them up as think as possible and leave to soak for 24 hours in a bucket of water. Using a handheld food whisk, whizz up the paper and water until you have a pulp like consistency.

Remove a handful of pulp from the bucket and squeeze out the excess water to form a ball and then using a rolling pin, roll out the ball for form a flat surface around 3mm thick. Add flower petals and arrange as you like and press in to the pulp to fix them. Leave this to dry out and you will have a gorgeous rustic style piece of petal art.

Trim the edges if you wish with a Stanley knife once it’s dry to stick to a card or add to a frame.

35. Stained glass windows

This is a great project if you like colour and clean lines!

All you need is

a sheet of acetate or glass,
some sweet wrappers (just the coloured part) and some clear glue.

Use the wrappers to create stained glass or Tiffany-esque style designs. This technique is great for exploring geometric shapes and symmetry in your art work.

36. Melted crayon art

This project is good for exploring 3D art and looking at sculpture as well as textures.

Get some wax crayons and melt them down in to a liquid form and then using a canvas or thick card, pour, paint or shape the wax across the space. Build the image up with fresh layers to create stunning scenes, or create psychedelic art.

37. Kinetic sculptures

This is a larger scale art project that is fantastic for exploring moving art and sculpture.

Find an object that has movement in it as a base, this could be a bicycle wheel, a windmill, or even make something – as long as it has movement.

Then taking objects such as paper cups, cardboard wing shapes – anything that catches the wind and attach to ensure it moves with the wind. Add to your sculpture in any style you like as long as it does affect the movement. Have fun playing with different objects as your sculpture evolves.

38. Art journaling

May people keep a journal or diary and write about their day, life – everything, but how about doing this differently and journaling with art.

Get a fresh drawing pad and use this as your journal. Log the dates at the top and then rather than write about your life, draw or paint it instead.

This form of expression can be interesting as a keepsake and also helps you get in to a daily creative flow.

39. Paint to music

This is an interesting technique if you want to explore rhythm and art. Simply choose some different types of music, your favorite songs, classical pieces, pop songs and heavy metal and draw or paint as you listen.

You can either paint the way the music makes you feel, the meaning of the song, paint to the beat or just have it on in the background, whatever you feel like doing.

Explore how and if the music affected your artwork. See if there are correlations between the music style and the end result.

40. Share art with balloons

This is a beautiful and simple way to share your art work with the world.

Simply acquire a balloon filled with helium, place a micro work of art in an envelope and attach securely to the balloon.

Write a little message on the card to the finder saying something positive or funny. This is a fantastic way to practice the selfless act of kindness and share your art with new and unexpected people.

41. Plywood art

Take a piece of plywood and cut it into 5 mm strips and place them on their side and lay them on a sheet of card.

Cut them all into squares and lay them on the card with the stripes in alternate vertical and horizontal positions and make a checker board pattern.

42. Potato sculptures

Potatoes are always in plentiful supply and they actually make a perfect base material with which to practice your sculpting skills.

You can also use sweet potatoes, which also give an amazing orange color.

Simply peel your potatoes and dry them off, then taking a sharp knife or French peeler, begin to practice cutting into the potato to make different shapes.

Google images online and look at different techniques.

People have created works of art using this method, and the best part is, if you make a mistake – you just grab another potato!

43. Light switch art

Most light switches are very dull.

Often they are plain white plastic that can look grubby over time. These little canvases are the perfect place to use your sets and crafts skills in the home. You can either paint them, decoupage them, spray paint them or even expand around them to create feature pieces.

This simple art exercise is great fun and you can cover with a clear varnish afterward to ensure they are easy to clean and will look fabulous for longer.

44. Typographical sculptures

Using ordinance survey maps, using tracing paper, trace around the red lines and then scan your tracing into your computer and scale to the size you want.

Then print this out on to card (any color). Then find the point on your map of the lowest level (sea level) and use this as your base layer and cut it out.

Then simply repeat the process by tracing the red lines, scanning in and printing out and then layer them over each other. You can keep doing this until you have exact replicas in 3D scale against the map.

Choose your favorite places in the world or mountains and enjoy the process of creating your sculptures.

45. Google earth sacred geometry

This is a great project if you like combining geometry and art.

Simple go online to google maps and take a view of the world as you wish, this could either be a country, a nation, continent or the entire world.

Print out the image on the paper and get your ruler and a pencil out. Now pin point places of interest or famous places around the world on the map, and then try joining them together to create images.

You can make simple squares, rectangles or star shapes, as well as exploring more complex geometric shapes such as the plutonic solids. Print out images of the plutonic solids from the internet then trace them over the Google map.

Layer them over each other to connect places and see what happens. This helps to expand your mind and see the correlation between natural form and patterns, as well as being a very interesting exercise in itself!

46. Body painting

Body painting is an ancient art form used for centuries as part of ceremonies and rituals. All you need for this is a willing body (or practice on yourself) and a lot of body paint.

You can approach this in a number of different ways to get different results. You can try completely free styling and seeing what happens, you can recreate clothing, famous works of art, or even create a tattoo effect.

Use different brushes and sponges to get the effects you want, and try blending and adding layers to create shadows that emulate realistic designs.

You can also get hold of UV body paint now, meaning you can paint some amazing designs and then go dancing the night away somewhere that has UV lighting.

Make sure you have lots of wipes handy for wiping off little mistakes!

47. Patchwork

Patchwork is a great project for when you have lots of bits and pieces of fabric lying around.

Bits of fabric
Sewing machine/needle and thread
Backing fabric – plain

Then all you do is cut the fabric into the same size squares and sew together using your chosen method. You can make this as big or as small as you like, making anything from cushions to quilts.

48. Resin paperweights

This is a fun and easy art project that you can do at home.

All you will need is:

Some resin (craft stores sell these)
Some interesting things to pop inside

Simply use the resin as per the instructions and set into the mound. Add any items you want in the mound such as flowers, trinkets or even toys such as Lego men! Leave to set and there you have a very simple and very cool custom paper weight!

49. Make your own Zen den

This is perfect for creating a small space in your home in which to escape from reality and drift off. You can either get a small plain childs teepee from a craft store or online, or use a teepee pattern and some bamboo sticks to create your own.

Then using fabric paints, decorate the tent to your preferences. Add feathers, wind chimes, flowers, garlands, fairy lights and whatever else you love until you have created a beautiful base.

Gather your favorite cushion, a scented candle, some crystals and set them out inside your Zen.

Then place your teepee somewhere quiet, sit inside it and enjoy your little slice of peace.

50. Brass rubbing

This simple art technique is a great exercise in working with wax and textures.

some wax crayons
a map of interesting places to visit

Try and find old or historic buildings such as churches as these often have lots of brasses on tombs and plaques. Simply place the paper over the brass and rub gently and evenly with the wax crayon (or even chalk) until you have a replica on your page.

You can then use them either as replicas in their own right, or play around with different rubbings to create a larger textured piece of art. This works well with different colors, or for a more regal effect, use glitter crayons in gold and silver.

51. Mind mapping

This is a great art project for getting all of your ideas out of your head and on to paper.

Take a large sheet of paper, some pastels, oils or sharpies and begin to create a visual image of your mind on paper. You can do this by merging cloud shapes together to form a brain-like image, or go more abstract and portray the calm or chaos within.

This is great for when inspiration is clouded by day to day thoughts as it clears out all the stuff to make way for the creativity within you to flow.

52. Movement images

This art technique is almost the opposite of a still life .

So rather than try to capture a still image on the frame, you seek to recreate movement.

This could be people moving, trees blowing in the wind, any subject involving movement is good. Experiment with blurred imagery that still captures the essence of the subject but in its free flowing form.

53. Chaos art

This is not one to hold back on, this is where you gather supplies and create a chaotic piece of art in full free flowing form.

Don’t think about what will go and what will ‘look good’, just try everything and see what happens. Mash up paints with fabrics, abstracts with perfect oils, layer, build and create a chaotic piece of art in any form.

This is a great way to find your artistic flow and enjoy art for the sake of art.

54. Redactive poetry

Take a page from a book – any book including a novel, poetry book, text book – anything, and then take a black marker and starting from the top, read down and cross out / highlight words as you go.

You can do this randomly or look to create your perfect poem.

This is great for card making if you can spell out something special for family and friends. Just cut it out after and stick to a card to make a truly unique and poetic gift.

55. Funky Pom Pom flowers

This is a fun and simple art project that will look amazing at home as an abstract flower display.

Some clean twigs all around 30cms
Lots of fluffy pom poms

Then simply stick the pom poms to the twigs. You can do these matching colors, or go all out rainbow style! Then either display in a vase or give as a gift to a friend who will appreciate this funky gesture.

56. Egg painting

This timeless art idea is still fun no matter how old you are! These also make great places settings for dinner parties.

Simply make a small hole at either end of the egg and blow out the yolk. Then wash the egg and leave to dry (being very carefully!)

Then place in an egg cup to hold still and begin painting your egg. You can make all kinds of funky designs, or if you have some gold paint, try recreating a Faberge egg (this will be a lot cheaper than an original!)

This is also amazing to do with ostrich eggs as you have a larger surface to work with. You can add a clear varnish after to seal in the designs and they will make amazing and unique ornaments.

57. Scrabble art

This is a fun project to make personalized frames and is very easy!

Lots of scrabble letters
A box frame

Then using the letters, spell out anything you like, ensuring that you do this in scrabble style with each consecutive word crossing through another. You can use this to make quotes or spell out names.

If you don’t have lots of scrabble letters, just print some out from the internet to make a flatter version.

Then glue them all down, add to the box frame and there you have your fantastic piece of scrabble art.

58. Make a mix tape

Or a CD even…

This is a perfect personalized gift and all you need is a black CD and a blank CD case.

Record all your favorite songs or their favorites, read poems or record messages. Then using sharpies, write on the CD or decorate as you like. Then make a piece of cover art (the same size as the CD case) and write a message or contents on the inside sleeve.

This may seem old fashioned in the digital age, but this is a lovely art project that someone will really appreciate.

59. Micro art

This art technique explores the smaller things in life.

Take a small subject, this could be anything as long as it’s very small, e.g. a toe, lips, a petal from a flower, a pencil tip – anything small that you would normally paint as a whole.

Then take your canvas and make the macro the whole piece. Explore the tiniest details of your subject, the curvature, the shadows and recreate it on canvas.

This is a great technique for understanding the detail in your art.

60. Macro art

This technique requires a starry night, a warm blanket, a flask of tea and a sketch pad and pencils/paints.

Lie down and look up at the stars and draw inspiration from this for your art. Try to see and feel the vastness of space and explore ways of capturing this on a page.

You could also place space dot to dots and have fun creating weird and wonderful shapes and faces from the stars.

This is a lovely technique that you can have fun with and bring added dimensions to your work.

61. Flower Crown / Seasonal Wreath

Celebrate the seasons with your own unique crown or wreath.

Pipe cleaners or a metal hanger
Fresh flowers and foliage
Some green string or cotton

Flowers are said to be the enlightenment of the plant and it’s easy to see why. A green plant will burst into life and produce a colorful, fragrant little gift in the form of a flower that makes us want to stop and admire it.

Throughout the year there are so many varieties of flowers all around us and this simple art project will bring you closer to nature as well as creating a little bit of beauty in the world.

Bend the pipe cleaners or hanger to form an enclosed circle then simply add the flowers and foliage in layers, tying on with the cotton to keep in all in place. You can use this to make a crown or a wreath and it’s easy to change with the seasons. Spritz with water to keep it fresher for longer.

62. Happy cards – love yourself every day

This is a lovely art project that will bring a lot of joy to you and others the more you use it and add to it.

10 + black card shapes (approx 15cms x 10cms)
A pack of crayons, sharpies, oil pastels, etc
A calligraphy pen

To start with gather 10 cards, or cut an A4 piece of card into 4 pieces. Take your pen and write a word or sentence on the top or bottom of the card. Think of happy words like love, joy, laughter, peace and happiness.

For the sentences, add your favorite quote, some song lyrics or something motivational and inspiring like… I believe in myself, I am happy, I believe I can fly..etc. Anything that will produce a positive feeling or make you smile.

Then on each card under or above the words, draw a picture of something that goes alongside the words. It could be anything; your favorite fruit, a flower, a book you love, anything that pops into your head. Even a bright color or abstract will look amazing.

Then each day, or when you feel sad, pull a card and keep it with you for a while. You can keep adding to your happy cards, and share them with friends and family too. Stay happy!

63. 3D Art – for art that likes to stand out

This very simple and creative technique will give your art projects a lift in more ways than one.

Have you ever been painting and you just wanted to lift your picture off the canvas and mold it into life? Well here is a way you can achieve this and have a lot of fun in the process.

Shaving Foam
Paint or food coloring

Mix the glue and shaving foam together (50/50 mix) and add some paint or food coloring to get the color you need. Repeat this with a few different colors and get painting. You will be amazed as your project springs to life.

64. Still Life – all is not as it seems

The simple beauty of this art is that anything can be your muse.

Still life is a great way to practice techniques using different materials such as paint, charcoal, oil pastels, pencils and more.

All you need to do is choose your muse; be it a bowl of fruit, a nature scene, a friend (if they can sit still long enough) and grab a sketch pad. Spend some time looking at your scene to see what you want to bring forth in to your work.

Try and see your still life as a living, breathing being, and try and capture the essence of it in your drawing or painting. It is said that Van Gough never ever saw just a chair… he saw the essence of a chair and this is what makes his paintings masterpieces.

This is also a perfect way to use art to unwind and be in the moment. Whilst you are creating art, you are creating love.

Get some still life drawing inspiration here .

65. Shoe wings – get a little spring in your step

This funky art project is great for when you want to add a touch of magic to your feet! Simply choose a fabric you like, choose some shoes you want to use and you’ll be flying.

All you need is:

Some funky fabric
Cotton Wool
A needle and thread

Draw a shape that you want the wings to be (approx 10cms x 10cms) and cut out 8 matching wing shapes. This can be from any fabric or even use some plain fabric from an old pillow case so you can decorate later.

Lay them all down so they are matching and simply sew two pieces together, leaving a gap for stuffing).

When you have all four wing pieces, stuff them all with a little cotton wool and sew closed. You can also sew lines into them to give more of a wing shape.

Finally, place against the shoes you want to attach them to and cut two holes in each wing. Sew carefully around the holes to keep the stuffing in and then thread through your shoe laces. You now have shoe wings and you are ready to fly!

66. Perfume petal art – pick your perfect picture

Petals are all beautiful in their own way, and flowers have been the inspiration for artists throughout the ages.

Go for a walk in nature and pick up some petals as you roam.

Take a piece of card, paper or canvas and start to arrange your petals into a design that you like. Be really creative here, the petals are the paint and you can create anything your mind can conceive… crush, cut, mold and shape your petals in to picture you can be proud of.

Use PVA glue or make a glue paste from flour and stick it all down to fix your picture. Finally, spray your picture with your favorite fragrance to give you a beautiful piece of art that smells as good as it looks.

67. Box frame collage

Create a unique memory from a holiday, day out, wedding or friendship that you can treasure or give as a gift.

Box frames are available online or at craft stores. Consider the size of the items you want to display and the area you want to hang or put your collage.

Choose small items that will fit inside your chosen frame; pebbles from the beach, sand, shells, confetti, name place cards, leaves, flowers. Add to this pictures, either from your photo collection or from magazines that fit your theme, think beach huts, ice cream cones, cake toppers, floral wall paper. You can give this a title; if your handwriting is good you can do free-hand or cut out letters from a magazine.

Combine the items in a pleasing way. The idea with box frames is to give your art piece a sense of depth. Sometimes less is more, then again sometimes more is more! It all depends on your personal style.

Glue your items in place once you are happy. You can add glitter to give the sense of water, or magic.

If you have sand you could leave this loose to allow your picture movement and create a new picture every time, add some sparkly glitter for real pizazz.

68. Mirror Art – frames within frames

We all have an old mirror lying around, if not they are inexpensive to pick up from car boot sales and bargain stores. Creating art on a mirror is essentially glass painting so you will need;

Glass paint

Create an image on the glass. If you still want to use the mirror, stick to the edges. It’s nice to create climbing patterns, swirling around the mirror creating a frame within a frame.

You can create scenes like creepy forests, your favorite animals or even write quotes into the mirror or around the edges.

Mirror art is simple and satisfying and easy for beginner artists as you can rub it out easily if you make mistakes and start again. Have fun making your very own mirror designed by you, for you (or for presents), it truly will be a one of a kind.

69. Family / friendly tree – mural art

This art project is ideal if you have some space on a wall at home as you can create a feature piece that encompasses your loved ones.

Some paint (brown and green for a standard tree, but who says trees have to be this color anyway?)
Some photos of your family and friends

To start off, create a tree trunk on the wall and build up your tree into branches. At the end of each branch, hang a photo on the end as if they are growing out of the tree.

You can also paint around the picture to create leaf frames. This is great as you can always add new branches and images and change the colors as your tree evolves.

70. Seasonal alter – bringing the outdoors inside

Whilst this may bring back memories of the nature table at school, there is a simple beauty to creating your own alter or nature table at home.

Try incorporating each of the 4 elements within your alter; earth, air, fire and water to create a beautiful display you can sit in front of and enjoy until the next season.

A table or tray
Items gathered from nature
Your favorite candles or trinkets

Using everything you have gathered, build up your alter, mixing you natural items with candles, bowls of water, crystals, rocks and anything else you love.

You can even place a mirror behind it to add depth and to reflect the light of the candles. Place somewhere you pass frequently and enjoy.

This truly is an evolving piece of living art that you can nurture and develop all year round.

71. Decoupage Shoes & Bags

Do you have an old pair of comfy leather shoes you just don’t wear anymore?

Or the charity shop clutch bag that really doesn’t go with anything you have?

You have the perfect excuse to make a funky pair of shoes for a fun costume or night out, with or without a matching bag. You will need some Mod Podge decoupage glue and a water proof sealant.

Cut out small pictures from comic books, maybe some of the speech bubbles, or you can use thin wall paper, pictures from magazines, anything on thin paper.

Coat the shoes with mod podge and places the pictures on the shoes.

You want to overlap the pieces and cover the whole shoe. The effect should be a little crazy and eye catching. You can use all black and white or have a riot of color.

Put your favorite pictures on the toe to really stand out. Cover the whole piece with top coat sealant and leave to dry for the specified amount of time.

Wear with pride.

Use the same technique for your clutch bag. Try to avoid parts that need to bend/fold/move a lot or your piece will crack.

72. Quotes on canvas

We all have our favorite quotes, words and sayings that make us feel good, so why not use these words to create a piece of art that you can enjoy each day?

All you will need is:

some paints and brushes

Add decorations around the edges, or even wash out the canvas to your chosen color before you paint the quote on.

Make sure you outline your quote in pencil first to ensure it fits perfectly on to the canvas. Happy days will follow as you not only get your daily reminder as well as appreciating your art.

These make great gifts too for family and friends.

73. Family shield/motif

In days gone by, most families had a shield or coat of arms that signified their house and what they stood for.

Grab a few sheets of blank paper and some pencils and sketch out some of the ideals, animals, attributes, nature, elements and more that you feel represents you as a person, or your family.

This can be a personal project for yourself or you can do this for your family or a group of friends.

Choose maybe 3 or 4 different images and cut them out and arrange them in the shape you desire. This could be a shield, a square, circle, star or any shape you love and bring all of the elements together. Try entwining the images to get a flow and add the colours you love.

Be as creative as possible as the aim is to create all the things that you want represented in one single piece. Use any materials you like to create your family shield, there is no limit to the different ways you can present your family shield.

74. Dinky bunting

Have you got a favourite dress with a wine stain down the front?

Old jeans you no longer can pull up over your butt or just remnants from sewing projects that aren’t big enough to use but are too precious to throw?

Try creating a cute bunting.

You will need either a ribbon or bias binding tape as long as you want your bunting to have a little extra to tie off the bunting. Consider how much material you have, how big you want the bunting to be and work out how many triangles of material you can make from the resources you have.

A triangle template the shape and size you want the bunting to be (around 3cms x 3cms for dinky bunting)
Pinking shears or scissors
A sewing machine or needle and thread.

If you are good with a sewing machine you can hem or double side your bunting. If you want a quick, easier project just use pinking shears to lessen the fray. Or if you have denim, work with the fray to create a unique piece of art.

Lay your template on your fabric and draw around the outside. If you are hemming your pieces allow a 1cm seam all around. Consider the best use of the fabric you have and jiggle pieces around considering any pattern you have.

Cut out the shapes, if you are sewing the edges using pinking shears to create a cute border and reduce fray. You can further reduce fray buy using a fray stop spray after you’ve cut your pieces.

Once all the pieces are cut out, pin them to your ribbon or bias binding tape. Bias binding is useful as you can tuck the triangles into the crease and sew them up creating a great finish. If you are using ribbon, pin the triangles to the back of the ribbon. Take some time to make sure they are evenly spread and you are happy with the order. Then sew across the ribbon to stitch the bunting into place.

After you have finished, you can use your dinky bunting for anything such as decorating bags, cakes, hanging over a picture frame or even over your PC. Dinky bunting looks great on anything, we all need more dinky bunting in our lives.

75. Custom clothing

Use up some old lace or netting and jazz up that plain boring t-shirt in your wardrobe. You’ll need a pair of sewing scissors, needle and thread and some creative thinking.

You can add lace trim to the sleeves or the bottom or your t-shirt for a quick pick me up. You can cut horizontal lines from your t-shirt back, stretch the fabric width ways which will make the edges curl in, then use the piece of net as a backing which will show through the slits.

Refashion the neckline to create an ‘off the shoulder’ look by cutting the neckline and stretching the fabric to make it roll. Then create lace straps by pinning and sewing the lace where it looks best (one strap, two, cross over).

You can add sequins, glitter fabric pens, appliqué patchwork, fray techniques to really pimp your clothing to new levels.

Custom clothing really allows you to unleash your ideas into wearable art, and this is a lot of fun in the process!

76. Face Art – your face is your canvas

Over the centuries, people have used face art to enhance natural beauty, hide from people through camouflage or to express their likes and dislikes. Your face is a canvas that is full of possibilities and it is a lot of fun exploring different ways to create facial art.

All you need is some make-up or face paints and a mirror.

Start with an image in mind or allow yourself to create as you go along.

You could look to create an animal (cow, tiger, peacock – you don’t have to draw the animal necessarily, just give an impression of their patterning or use the color scheme as a source of inspiration), or create a seasonal theme (ice maiden, or summer fairy), or try a painting technique (expressionism, pop art, watercolor) and apply the theories to your make up.

This is a lot of fun and you can have hours of fun exploring different styles.

Take a picture each time and you will soon have your very own gallery of amazing face art images.

77. Rock paintings

If you’re short of some paper or canvas and fancy creating something a little more tactile, then rock painting is a great option.

There are rocks in abundance on this earth, so have a walk along the beach or through the woods and see what you can find. Once home, give them a nice bath to clean them up, get out your paints and brushes and use your creativity.

Acrylic paints work best on rocks, but you can use anything you have to hand. You can even create scenes with your rocks, paint faces on them, use them as place holders or as markers in the garden. If you need them to be waterproof, simply paint a layer of yacht varnish over the paint and this will ensure the color stays put. Happy rock painting!

78. Herb candle jars

We all have lots of jars lying around and making these herb jars is an amazing way to use them and create pretty candles for around the home.

Clean empty jars
Candle wax and wicks
Fresh or dried herbs
Garden twine

Take your empty jar and a little melted wax and stick the herbs in the jar around the edge. Place your wick inside as per your candle making instructions and then fill the jar with wax. The herbs will be held in place by the wax and the jar will look beautiful. You can also do this with petals and any flowers. To finish tie a piece of string around the top of the jar to form a handle and your jar is ready to display and use.

79. Funny frame photography

This project is a fun project best enjoyed with friends and family.

A large empty frame (decorate how you wish)
Bits and pieces for fancy dress such as funny hats, scarves, glasses, mustaches and funny words/quotes (or even comic style quotes)
A plain background

Then, take it in turns to hold the frame around yourself and pick the funny fancy dress items and take lots of pictures. The outcome will be funky and funny images you can then use to create an album or collage to hang at home. This beats the posy pics most people do and it’s a great way to spend time laughing and getting creative with friends.

80. String mobile

Creating your own mobile is incredibly easy, all you need to hand is:

Anything you want to hang from it

This simple art project is perfect if you have a theme you want to work with.

For instance, you can choose a seasonal theme, make it into an alternative birthday card, use it for decorating a party or even to celebrate your favorite things.

To start with cut out a circle approx. 15-20 cm. Use a sharp object or pin to create 6 evenly-spaced holes around the edges, and one in the middle.

Decorate the circle however you wish, leave to dry and then thread the string through the 6 holes and tie a loop knot in the middle to allow for hanging.

You can cut the strings to however long or short you like, however this also works well when they are divided into different lengths, try one short one long alternating between the two, or try them in a circular ascending / descending order.

For the mobile pieces, add small pictures, images of your favorite things, items from nature, postcards, small toys or anything that makes you happy or the recipient happy. This is your own little mobile that you can use to express yourself and the things you love or to share the love with others.

81. Stress balls

Are you feeling stressed out?

This amazing simple project will help you relieve your stress and enter the Zen zone…

A bag of flour
A small funnel

Simply pour the flour in the balloon until it’s as full as possible then tie to seal. Then hold your stress ball in your hand and squeeze the stress away.

82. Hat decorating

Make yourself a cool custom hat with this fun art project.

Take a plain baseball cap, then sew a piece of ribbon all the way around in your chosen color. Then take smallish items such as flowers, badges, pins and sew on to the ribbon to secure.

You can also swap and change things as you like, making sure your hat is truly one of a kind!

Learn more: https://www.asicentral.com/news/sponsoredby/paramount-apparel/the-ultimate-hat-decoration-guide-every-method-explained/

83. Tie dye your pillowcases or socks

Purchase some Dylon fabric dye in the color of your choice (the darker the better).

Tie some elastic bands on around bunches of fabric super tight (various tie-dye patterns can be looked up online)! Then, simply leave to soak in your dye for the recommended time.

84. Faerie glow jars

Grab some unused mason jars and some large glow sticks in the color of your choice.

Cut the glow sticks open and allow the liquid to drip down the sides of the jar.

Add a few drops of water to extend its glow life.

Add a lid and voila!

Should glow for up to a week… Perfect for parties!

85. Pressed flower clear phone case

Purchase some resin, pressed flowers (or press your own leaving flowers between books for up to a month) and a clear phone case to fit your phone.

Simply decide on your design by placing your flowers on the inside of the case using tweezers, once happy simply drip your resin over your design being careful to remove bubbles and checking the design from the other side.

Leave to dry and you have fashioned a stunning new case.

Alternatively, you can also cut pictures to size and seal them down using resin.

86. Using nail varnish to marble pots (or just about anything!)

Drip a few drops of nail varnish in the color of your choice into a bucket of water, allow it to disperse a little and dip your plant pot/item slowly into the water.

Repeat until satisfied with the result.

87. Decoupage a chair/table

Rip up a selection of paper (could be maps, newspapers, whatever takes your fancy!).

Simply paste onto your furniture of choice using slightly watered down PVA glue.

If small enough can be coated with a layer of resin.

88. Foiling

You can create a foiled card/ piece of artwork on the cheap by simply printing your design using a LaserJet printer onto paper and running both your design and your foil placed on top through a laminator.

After it has run through simply remove the foil.

89. Kebab skewer sculpture

Purchase a small polystyrene ball and spray paint it black as well as the ends of some wooden kebab skewers ever so slightly.

Stick in the ball from all angles (spikey end in the ball) and continue until satisfied with the result.

90. Photo transfer canvas

Grab a canvas and photo of choice (photocopy), coat the canvas in a gel medium and paste the image down face down.

Leave to dry overnight then spray with water and gradually rub away the image.

91. Melted wax crayons

You can create a cool piece of art by gluing a box of crayons along the top of a canvas and melting them using a hair dryer or heat gun allowing the wax to drip down the canvas.

92. Funky garden chairs

Everyone has those boring plastic garden chairs lying around, they are mostly dull and lifeless and add no visual appeal to the garden.

Change this with a pack of sharpies and some clear boat varnish.

Simply clean the chair thoroughly, decorate and color the chair with the sharpies to your own design and then seal with varnish.

The end result will look amazing and much more appealing than a boring old plastic chair.

93. Decoupage table tops

This works well on any table and any surface.

All you need is a variety of paper – look for old maps, flight charts, vintage magazines or old picture books and cut into smallish squares.

Stick them to the table using PVA glue until the entire surface is covered.

Then either paint over with clear boat varnish or even get a piece of glass cut to size to seal in the images.

This is great for old coffee tables and cheap identikit furniture to give a new lease of life.

94. Match sculptures

This is a fun art technique for those of us who like a more tactile approach.

Gather as many plain match sticks or plain sticks as possible (be sure to use the ones without the flammable heads) and create freestyle 3D art.

Use superglue (sparingly) or PVA glue to create flat images initially that you can then build up on the page.

Have fun creating images from your mind or use still life for inspiration.

Either way, you will have lots of fun creating your own match stick sculptures!

95. Snow sculptures

This is perfect for when it’s snowing and you’re feeling bored!

All you need to do is gather a big bucket of snow, grab some food coloring and a tray.

Lay the snow out on the tray and use the food coloring to change the colors. Then be prepared for cold hands (or wear gloves) as you shape your scenes. You can build mountains, rainbows, forests or even psychedelic style art out of the snow and colors.

You might also want a camera as this style of art won’t last forever!

96. Scratch crayon art

This one you might remember from school, and it’s a lot of fun to try again with a slightly different approach.

Simply draw or paint a picture on a piece of card, in any style you like.

Then completely cover the entire surface with a black wax crayon.

Take a knife or nail file and then scratch the image you like into the wax – revealing parts of the image underneath.

Have fun with this by revealing parts of shapes, creating a mesh of light and dark scenes on your page. These make great birthday card covers as you can write into the wax, making a really cool card!

97. Shadow Art

This is a great technique to use with pastels and charcoals.

Simply use some blue tack to pin some plain paper against a wall and then use a light shade and objects to create a shadow on the wall.

Then using charcoal, sketch around the shadows to create some really unique images.

98. Finger painting

We forget this simple technique, however finger painting is a great way to really get involved with your images to create something unique.

Using any paints you like, simply freestyle with the paint on your fingers and see what comes up.

The modern day equivalent (and less messy version) of this is iPad art.

There are many apps you can use to practice your art techniques, although the finger painting is a lot more fun!

99. Dream drawing

This is a very interesting art technique to try out and many famous artists are said to find inspiration in their dreams.

Take a sketch pad and pencil/chalk etc and leave it next to your bed.

The next time you wake up from your dream, try and immediately sketch it out as you recall.

Keep doing this and build a visual art sleep diary, you will be amazed at what happens!

100. Imitation art

Imitation is the highest form of flattery, so why not spend some time with an image of a famous work of art and look to recreate the image.

Study the work, brush strokes and colors.

This is not only fun, but it also helps you to develop your talents further and discover how these pieces became so popular.

101. Life size self-portrait – abstract

This is a large work of art that not only requires a large canvas but also a lot of soul searching.

Set up your canvas and paints and take a few moments to think about yourself, who you are, your life and how you see yourself and then create a life size image on the canvas in abstract form.

Try and capture thoughts and feelings and the essence of you as a whole.

This can take as long as you like and can evolve over time.

102. Old fashioned feather writing

This is great for writing or drawing.

All you need is a large feather with an intact vein and an inkwell.

Shape the end off to a diagonal and squeeze lightly to draw the ink up and start writing.

You can even write scrolls and use wax and a seal to create truly authentic look documents.

103. House signs

Create your own creative and funny house signs with this simple craft project.

some MDF – any shape you like,

Drill two small holes in the top left and right-hand corners to enable a hanger to be made from the wire.

Then take some Cuprinol or garden paint and cover the entire surface. Leave to dry, then using a marker, write out catch phrases and funny words. Add stickers, draw on images and then finally seal with 2 layers of clear varnish.

These look great and make a wonderful personal gift!

104. Personalize your laptop

Most laptops are relatively boring.

We spend hours staring at these identikit pieces of equipment and nobody really thinks to make them personal.

You can use stickers, covers, make mosaic patterns, add photo stickers or go all out and make it a beautiful work of art.

Many places can now add your designs to covers so you can have your art work on display to inspire you all day.

105. Tile art

Most people can get hold of plain ceramic tiles, either leftovers from a project or cheaply in DIY stores.

This is a perfect little canvas and you can either use this as a canvas or create tiles to decorate a room in the home.

You can try individual tiles or recreate a pattern over many tiles. Simply use a water resistant paint and get in to your creative flow, allow to dry then seal before adding to walls in the normal way.

These create great flashes of art in the home and you can add to them or simply paint straight on to any that are already on the walls.

106. Collage your work

Collaging is great fun and especially great for when (like most artists) you have various bits and pieces lying around that you don’t really display.

Chose a large wall and build a collage of your work and ideas.

Mix in prints of your inspirations, either other artists, landscapes, your muse and more.

Stand back after and see your artists journey and keep adding to it. No art should be left un-displayed.

Learn more: https://www.digitalartsonline.co.uk/features/illustration/21-collage-tips/

107. Cup cake art

The cupcake is a perfect edible canvas on which you can unleash your creativity.

Get messy with colored icings, sprinkles, colors, shapes and create the perfect work of art cupcake.

Sculpt the icing, think abstract and take lots of pictures – this is a very fun art project and you get to eat the results!

108. Campaign art

Do you have a passion for a cause or a favorite charity?

Then create a piece of art that describes how you feel about your cause.

Be it a picture or painting, think about offering it to your favorite cause as a gift or fundraising item.

This shares your art and ideas with people who share your ideals and is a great personal project.

109. Find beauty in all things

This is a great exercise and requires a few simple items.

Your art supplies and the most ordinary, boring, non-sensical item you can find, and look at it deeply. Try and find the beauty in this item and recreate it on a canvas or paper. Even the tiniest brown pebble or a piece of old rope can have beauty if you just look deep enough.

110. Pimp your furniture

When it comes to furniture, it’s hard to stand out.

Most of us tend to succumb to chain stores like Ikea because they offer the best prices and styles. But how annoying is it walking into a friend’s home only to find the exact same coffee table in his living room?

So not cool!

If you’d like to impress your friends with an original furniture piece you’re either going to have to make it or at the very least style it yourself. Seeing as actually making furniture may require a little more expertise, just go for the styling right away!

By using fun paper collage techniques, stencils or a simple paint brush and a coat of paint, you can make even the most generic Ikea coffee table look like a special find from a designer or vintage shop.

111. Mason jar snow globes

How many glass jars do you use up on a weekly basis?

And most importantly: what do you do with them all? Throwing them out is a shame considering the many uses you can find for them.

You can turn baby food jars into darling little candle holders, or re-use bigger mason jars to store other goods in – anything from food to random buttons. But if you really want to make your used mason jar shine, turn it into a dazzling little snow globe!

The theme doesn’t have to be wintery at all – you can come up with your very own idea. Is your daughter obsessed with unicorns?

Then create the kind of landscape for your daughter’s unicorn that would make Rainbow Brite’s unicorn envious.

Has your son or daughter developed a fascination for the underwater world after seeing Finding Nemo? Then turn your mason jar into a little aquarium. All you need is a glass jar, food coloring, glycerine, plastic figurines and glitter. One of the more Christmassy art project ideas on the list.

112. Painter’s tape art

Have you always fancied creating a stunning piece of art on canvas but are put off by the fact that, well, you just can’t paint?

No worries. There are other ways around it – yes, even for those of you with not one creative vein in your body.

The trick? Painter’s tape!

Painter’s tape is really easy to rip and cut into fun shapes, making it the perfect material to use if you’re looking to create an original art piece without actually having to paint any sophisticated shapes or symbols. Choose your favorite colors and go ahead and spread them out all over the canvas. Really go nuts here – the more layers of paint and colors you use, the more texture your painting will have. Once the paint has dried, cut up strips or symbols from your painter’s tape and stick them on to the canvas.

This may take quite a while depending on the number of shapes you are looking to create. When you’re done taping, paint over the canvas and the strips again using your chosen base color. Wait for it all to dry and then carefully start removing the painter’s tape. Seal it with the appropriate varnish and your abstract tape painting is ready to be hung!

113. Custom canvas bag

This is a fantastic quick and easy art project you can do with a few simple items…

A plain canvas bag
Fabric paints or crayons
Studs / gems
Fabric glue

Just lay out your bag and get decorating in your chosen style, adding gems and studs to spell out names or phrases and creating your perfect handbag.

And there you have it time to get creative! If you have more creative art project ideas please let us know in the comments below.

Also from The Talent Bank

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This is an amazing website to find all sorts of different art projects. From school to home, to work, to just plain out bored. This is the website to go to!

12 October Nail Ideas & Colors That Capture the Month Perfectly

October is one of the best months to try out new nail designs, like these lovely autumn themes and spooky-season styles.

Casey has a Bachelor's Degree in English and a Master's degree in Information Science. Her expertise is in research and libraries.

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October is a fun nail color month — you get the best of both worlds when it comes to pretty fall and spooky Halloween themes, so you can go dark and moody, bold and eye-catching, or something on the lighter side that's just as lovely. Find the perfect look that fits your October style!

Try a Unique Autumnal Color Palette for October

Capture the bright orange colors of the October leaves with a pretty orange polish paired with a warm dark mauve polish color similar to some of those less-common purple fall leaves. This look is trendy without being too on the nose.

Keep It Elegant With Beige and Black

Embrace your classy-but-witchy vibes this October with these beige and black-accented nails. The touch of sparkle adds a mystical elegance that goes perfectly with the month.

Get the look:

OPI nail polish in Coconuts Over OPI
ILNP holographic nail polish in Black Magic
Nail art brushes
OPI top coat

Shimmery Reddish-Brown for a Day Out

Planning to go to the pumpkin patch this October? While you’re picking out your perfect fall outfit, don’t forget about your nails! A reddish-brown shimmer (we love the reds in this Red Party gel nail polish set from Gaoy) will look gorgeous on a sunny or cloudy day. Between your cute nails, cute pics, and a cute pumpkin patch caption , you'll be set.

Related: 55 Pumpkin Patch Captions That Are Ripe for the Picking

Simple Dark Green Shades

A dark olive or forest green polish fits well for both autumn and Halloween themes without being over the top. But it’s a unique look that’ll make people ask you what shade you used!

Plaid Nails for a Classic October Feel

Lots of people love to wear plaid in October, so why not try the design on your nails? This color combo of cream, orange, red, and a sagey green absolutely captures that autumn spirit. You can freehand it, but we're all about mani-ease. We bet you'll find some plaid designs you love on this pack of plaid nail stickers .

Play With Seasonal Shapes

Everyone knows October is the peak time for colorful leaves, so try incorporating their beauty right into your manicure. A clear acrylic nail with autumn leaf nail stickers will have people complimenting your nails left and right. We also love the matte orange nails alongside the leaves. To do them, paint the nails with OPI nail polish in Liquid Fire and finish with a matte top coat .

Toxic Green Goo Nails (but Make It Cute)

A vibrant green stands out from the usual earth tones and dark colors associated with October for a monstrously cute look. If you don’t want to go all-out green goo colored , just use it as an accent color on a few nails with sparkly green tips for the rest.

Go Chic With Dark Matte Brown

Once October hits, counter those summer nude shades with this lovely, understated brown. If you want a look that’s purely classy and goes with pretty much any outfit, brown might be your color.

Hot chocolate nails are one of the trending looks for the fall season. Get the look with a color like OPI's Chocolate Moose or ILNP Dash of Cocoa .

White Nails With Black Webbing

For something reminiscent of the Halloween season, but maybe not in-your-face ghouls and goblins, try a white nail polish with an abstract black polish design (brush it on with a thin nail art brush ) that looks almost like a spider web.

Warm and Fuzzy Polka Dots

Go for light taupe and white polka dots (a dotting tool makes it easy) to change up your manicure this October. This comforting color palette makes me feel like cozying up with a warm soy latte.

Opal October Birthday Nails

I’m pretty jealous of folks born in October for multiple reasons, one of them being that opal is one of their birthstones. Pay homage to this beautiful stone and your birthday month with a shimmery, iridescent white nail polish that looks just like opal.

Add Extra Drama With a Chrome Finish

October’s a great time to dress a little more boldly than normal (or just as bold, but with a dark edge). Dark-colored nail polish with a chrome-like shine will bring all the drama you want and more.

Choose a Few October Nail Designs to Try Throughout the Month

October might be one of the most fun months to choose a nail design; there are so many cool options to choose from! Luckily there are zero rules that say you can only pick one.

Try a new design each week depending on your mood or what you're doing. If you're headed to the pumpkin patch, go with something cute and fall-themed. If you're going to a live music show, pick something bold and edgy. And as Halloween inches closer, maybe your end-of-the-month nails get a little spookier with some Halloween-themed nail designs . It's all up to you, so have fun!

Grades 6-12
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72 Amazing 1st Grade Art Projects To Inspire Creativity and Play

Project ideas for every kid!

Examples of first grade art projects including a self portrait made with a balloon for bubble gum and a picture of a child in a hot air balloon painting with cotton clouds.

Keep the fun going all year long with this roundup of creative, simple, and fun 1st grade art projects. Whether you feel like diving into painting, pattern-making, mixed media, or sculpture, there is something for everyone on this list.

We have projects that can be tackled over multiple classes as well as projects that can be completed in under an hour. Students will learn basic art concepts like color mixing while discovering famous artists. Your little artists will be proud to take their masterpieces home!

Paper sculptures made of colorful folded paper strips, hung on the wall (First Grade Art)

1. Hang 3D line sculptures

Simple strips of paper become a striking display in this cool collaborative 1st grade art project. It’s a clever way to use up scraps of construction paper too.

Learn more: Line Art Sculptures

Jeff Koontz-inspired drawings of balloon dogs (First Grade Art Projects)

2. Sketch balloon dogs

Jeff Koons’ balloon dog sculptures are a hit with kids and adults alike. Let kids draw their own using a walk-through video to get them started.

Learn more: Balloon Dog

Spooky blow and resist painted web as an example of first grade art projects.

3. Blow a crayon-resist web

This is a modern twist on the classic crayon resist project. After drawing a web in pencil and tracing it with a white crayon, use a pipette to transfer watercolor paint to the paper. Then use a straw to blow the paint across the paper.

Learn more: Spooky Blow and Resist Web

4. Learn to draw Bluey

Every kid will love learning to draw their own version of this beloved Australian pup! After they follow along with the video, have them fill in their own background to complete the picture.

Pencil self-portrait with wild construction paper hair added

5. Go wild for self-portraits

Start with a simple self-portrait sketch. Then let kids go wild with the hair, adding paper strips in crazy colors and patterns.

Learn more: 3D Hair Self-Portraits

First grade farm paintings showing perspective

6. Point out perspective with Andrew Wyeth farms

Even firsties can master perspective with this easy project. The dot-painted flowers and vegetables are fun and easy too.

Learn more: Perspective Project

Colorful paper plane flying over a tissue paper background, leaving a heart made of cotton behind (First Grade Art Projects

7. Fly cotton-skywriting planes

This mixed-media idea is so clever! Kids use tissue squares to create a colorful sky background, then glue cotton batting over the top to simulate skywriting from a paper plane.

Learn more: Skywriting Planes

8. Show movement with lines

Lines are an incredibly simple thing to draw, but when you use them right, they can add a real element of excitement to your work. Learn how it’s done with this helpful video.

A blue bowl has a painted fish in it with colorful gravel (first grade art)

9. Turn paper plates into aquariums

Begin by having your students paint a paper plate blue, then have them create a goldfish using craft foam. Finally, piece it all together and decorate the aquarium with colored pebbles, sand, or anything else of your choosing!

Learn more: Paper Plate Aquarium

Stripey modern sculptures made of paper.

10. Take inspiration from a Calder sculpture

Oversize sculptures like Alexander Calder’s are accessible and fun for kids of any age. Re-create them in paper form with this engaging art project for 1st graders.

Learn more: Calder-Inspired Sculptures

Paper birch trees with cutout cardinals on top

11. Cut out cute cardinals

If you haven’t seen Charley Harper’s wonderful wildlife art , you should definitely check it out. Share it with your students, then get ready to create these charming cardinals.

Learn more: Charley Harper-Inspired Cardinals

12. Design a zentangle

Zentangles are a combination of art and mindfulness, and you really can’t do them wrong. Learn the technique in this video, then let kids play around with patterns on their own.

Leaf printed with white paint and tinted with colored pencils on black paper (First Grade Art Projects)

13. Print and color autumn leaves

Gather large leaves to use for this project. Kids coat them with white paint, then press them on black paper to make prints. Once the paint is dry, they add various hues using colored pencils.

Learn more: Leaf Prints

14. Arrange an abstract alphabet

Grab some markers and have your 1st grade art students write the letters of the alphabet randomly all over a piece of paper. Then, use color to fill in enclosed areas. The possibilities are endless!

Learn more: Abstract Art

The letter H turned into a cat with a colored-in background (First Grade Art)

15. Turn letters into animals

This is another simple way to combine letters with art. Have kids draw any letter they like, then turn it into any animal they choose.

Learn more: Letter Animals

16. Pinch a heart-shaped pot

Pinch pots are an easy clay project that 1st graders will love. They also make a nice gift for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and other special occasions.

Learn more: Pinch Pot Heart

A self portrait is drawn with colored pencil. There are circles around the head and a pink balloon is coming out of the mouth and is supposed to be bubblegum.

17. Create a bubblegum self-portrait

This is such a fun spin on a traditional self-portrait. Your students will definitely get a kick out of adding their “bubblegum” to their masterpieces.

Learn more: Bubble Gum Self-Portrait

Colorful paper mobile made of colorful paper circles

18. Collaborate on a group mobile

Collaborative art projects are always a lot of fun. This one creates a beautiful mobile perfect for hanging in the classroom or offering up at a school art auction .

Learn more: Group Mobile

Crayon drawing of a child on a long piece of paper folded in quarters (First Grade Art)

19. Be Big! with a self-portrait

Kick off the school year by reading Be Big! Beatrice’s First Day of First Grade . Then, make these cute self-portraits to show your kids just how big they’re getting.

Learn more: Big Self-Portraits

Stick sculpture with yarn woven between the branches

20. Weave wishbone sticks

This project can be adapted for any age, but for 1st grade art students, use thick, chunky yarn and sticks with a wide “V,” along with blunt plastic darning needles. The “in and out” pattern of the yarn will help improve dexterity and fine motor skills.

Learn more: Wishbone Sticks

A painting of a worried looking polar bear (first grade art)

21. Cut out a polar bear

Have your students paint the background using watercolor or tempera paint, then get started on the polar bear. Have students draw two ears, a round face, and the body on white paper with black marker, then cut the pieces out. Finally, let your students personalize their bears with their choice of expression or attire.

Learn more: Polar Bear Painting

22. Add texture to a turtle shell

Make this easy by copying blank turtles for everyone to color. Then, have kids add a variety of textures and patterns to their turtle. Tip: Look at pictures of real turtles for potential pattern ideas.

23. Re-create a starry skyscape

Here’s a simple but impressive project to try. Oil pastels are easy to use and make kids feel like real artists. Let them use their own techniques to re-create Van Gogh’s famous Starry Night .

Learn more: Starry Night Painting

Clay stars swirled with Van Gogh designs

24. Copy Van Gogh’s stars in clay

Want to try a different take on the classic painting? These Van Gogh–inspired clay stars are the way to go! (They also make excellent holiday ornaments.)

Learn more: Van Gogh Stars in Clay

25. Add texture to sunflowers with glue

Here’s one more take on Van Gogh, this time focusing on his sunflowers. Impressionism is known for textures, so this 1st grade art project uses black glue to give dimension to simple sunflowers. Kids draw the sunflowers, then outline them with glue. When the glue is dry, add soft, beautiful watercolors.

Learn more: Glue Sunflowers

26. Use forks to make tulips

Collect plastic forks from your takeout meals, or hit the thrift store and buy a collection of metal spoons you can use again and again. Then, use them to create these simple but charming spring flowers.

27. Chalk a fluttering butterfly

Chalk art pastels produce impressive results at any age. This 1st grade art project has a fun but simple 3D element too.

Learn more: Chalk Butterfly

28. Paint Cézanne-style apples

This may seem too complicated for a 1st grade art project, but you can attack it in several steps. Teach kids to draw the bowl and apples. Then, have them draw the outlines with oil pastel to create a barrier. Paint the apples red and then the background with colorful watercolors, and voilà!

Learn more: Cezanne-Style Apples

A construction paper giraffe is shown on a bright background.

29. Assemble a friendly giraffe

Pair this cute art project with a lesson on giraffes! Read books like Giraffes Can’t Dance or watch some videos on these tall creatures before doing a guided drawing of a general giraffe shape. Once the shape is there, let your students personalize their giraffes in any way they wish.

Learn more: Giraffe Art

30. Print with foam blocks

Show kids how to carefully carve designs into foam blocks using blunt tools like a chopstick. Then, make colorful prints using their pattern blocks.

Cardboard ponds with crayon lily pads and sculpted clay frogs (First Grade Art)

31. Hop onto Monet lily pads

Monet’s lily pond paintings are among his most famous. Take a look at some of them, then have kids create their own mixed-media lily pad projects adorned with cute clay frogs!

Learn more: Monet Lily Pads

32. Color-mix to create winter landscapes

This simple art project combines a surprising amount of concepts, including color mixing, stamping, and honing fine motor skills. And the results are pretty striking.

Learn more: Winter Landscapes

33. Make Mondrian-patterned hearts

Mondrian’s bright, simple patterns are very appealing to young kids. They’ll enjoy mimicking his style with this easy activity.

Learn more: Mondrian-Style Hearts

34. Circular yarn weaving on paper plates

This yarn-weaving project produces impressive results, but it’s pretty easy to master. It’s a nice way to combine fine motor skills practice with art.

Fish artwork hanging in front of classroom window

35. Fly some cool koinobori kites

Try an Asian-inspired art project with these colorful fish kites. May 5 is Children’s Day in Japan, and these koinobori are an important part of the celebration. Firsties in any country will love creating their own kites in springtime or anytime.

Learn more: Koinobori Kites

A child is seen painting Easter eggs with watercolor paints.

36. Decorate watercolor eggs

This is such a fun art project, and the technique can definitely be used for more than just Easter eggs. Use a wax crayon or oil pastel to draw the designs onto the egg, then color some of the spaces with crayon. Finally, use watercolor to paint over the whole egg with a single color. It’s so cool to watch the way the paint avoids the crayon and allows the designs to peek through.

Learn more: Painted Easter Egg Art

37. Mix in some salt

Combine science with art in this project. First, draw snowflakes with glue and sprinkle salt over the top. After it dries, add a few drops of watercolor and watch the salt absorb it and change color like magic!

Long-legged birds drawn over watercolor backgrounds

38. Give colorful birds a Dalí twist

Giant birds with super-long and wiggly legs? First graders will love the silliness of this project, but it’s not all just fun and games. These watercolor birds show the differences between warm and cool colors, and the long legs are a tribute to the master of the unexpected, Salvador Dalí .

Learn more: Dalí Spring Birds

Clay owl artwork mounted on wood plaques

39. Sculpt the cutest owl vignettes

This is a unique twist on standard clay projects. The owls themselves are easy to create, and mounting them on a wood plaque really makes this 1st grade art activity stand out.

Learn more: Clay Owls

40. Doodle like Kandinsky

Kandinsky is known for his circles, but his other abstract work is mesmerizing too. Read the book The Noisy Paint Box to learn about the artist’s life. Then use black markers, watercolors, and cotton swabs to help achieve that muted color/haze.

Learn more: Kandinsky Doodles

41. Wind yarn through straws

This easy 1st grade project creates a bracelet kids can wear. Let them choose their favorite colors and make a wearable work of art!

Dot artwork by child, showing the dot as an ice cream cone

42. Start with a dot

The Dot is a favorite read-aloud and the perfect springboard for so many art activities ! In this one, kids take a single dot and turn it into whatever they can imagine.

Learn more: Dot Art Project

A drawing shows a girl holding an umbrella that is divided into sections with each one a different color.

43. Explore color mixing

This is the perfect 1st grade art project when you are short on time since it can be completed in an hour or less. Before beginning, read the book Mix It Up! with your students to introduce the concept of color mixing.

Learn more: Watercolor Art

44. Think in circles

Divide a large canvas into even squares. Each student gets a square to decorate with their own circle art, creating a cohesive but unique whole.

Learn more: Circle Art

Spiral artwork made with crayons and watercolors

45. Scribble a spiral

Teach contrasting colors and composition with this simple project, using crayons and watercolors. It’s like tie-dye for paper!

Learn more: Scribble Spiral

46. Use shapes to create Klee-inspired villages

Learn about Paul Klee’s cubist paintings, then have kids create their own with oil pastels and watercolors. These vibrant pieces are sure to brighten your classroom walls.

Learn more: Klee-Style Villages

47. Fold simple origami dogs

Introduce kids to origami with this really easy folding project. After they make their paper pup, they can add details like facial features, patterns, and colors.

Tie-dyed coffee filters made with washable markers

48. Blend colors using coffee filters

There’s a reason this project is so popular: It’s mesmerizing to watch colors bleed together and create a rainbow of new colors and patterns. All you need are color filters, washable markers , a spray bottle of water, and newspaper or paper towels.

Learn more: Color Mixing Coffee Filters

49. Compose a color wheel bouquet

This 1st grade art project is part treasure hunt and part art lesson. Pull out your box of scrap paper and have students dig through to find the pieces they need to complete a color wheel daisy. You’ll wind up with a whole garden!

Learn more: Color Wheel Bouquet

Hot air balloon art made in collage style against a watercolor background

50. Float away with mixed-media collages

The personal aspect of this mixed-media hot-air balloon collage is what really makes it stand out. (Tip: Trim the student pictures yourself since the detailed cuts may be too much for little fingers.)

Learn more: Hot-Air Balloons

51. Build baskets with yarn and glue

There are no major weaving skills required for these wacky baskets. Simply dip strips of yarn into glue and lay over an upside-down paper cup or bowl. When the glue dries, remove the paper cup, and you’ve got a basket!

Learn more: Yarn Baskets

52. Discover complementary colors

Learning color theory at an early age will help kids develop their artistic instincts. Draw simple patterns and fill them with complementary colors to explore this concept.

Child dragging a piece of yarn dipped in paint across a piece of yellow paper

53. Drip like Pollock

Here’s a great use for yarn scraps. Kids dip yarn into tempera paint, then drip or drag it over the paper to create abstract designs reminiscent of Jackson Pollock. (Tip: Read Action Jackson first for inspiration.)

Learn more: Paint Like Pollock

Paper lizards colored to look like their colorful patterned backgrounds

54. Craft cleverly camouflaged lizards

Combine art and science with a lesson about camouflage. Then challenge your students to create a patterned background for a paper lizard to blend into.

Learn more: Camo Lizards

Rainbow paper woven through a white paper cloud

55. Fashion a paper rainbow

Paper weaving is a fun and simple craft that opens up lots of possibilities. Firsties will enjoy making these pretty rainbows; you could even tie it in with a lesson about weather !

Learn more: Paper Rainbow

56. Paint with cotton swabs

Swap out brushes for cotton swabs and try basic pointillism with your firsties. This art technique is very simple, but it can be used to create incredible masterpieces.

Large block letters are shown with patterns drawn in them with crayon. (first grade art)

57. Fill in letter outlines

This is a fun way to have the class work on a group project since each kid can take a different letter that can be used to spell something out on a bulletin board, etc. Print the outline of the letters, then let your students create patterns inside them with crayons or other media.

Learn more: Letter Pattern Art

58. Put the “A” in STEAM

This mixed-media project has several components, so plan to do it over several days. The results are worth it, and they’re so much fun!

Learn more: Mad Scientist Art Project

Leaf pattern artwork made with crayons and watercolors

59. Play with patterns

When the leaves start to change color, try this pretty project using the watercolor-resist method. Students can really let their imaginations run wild with the pattern designs and color choices.

Learn more: Leaf Patterns

African art inspired spider with a blue patterned background and full moon

60. Explore African art with Anansi

Read the story of Anansi the Spider , an African folk hero. Then use African art styles to make Anansi pictures to hang in the classroom.

Learn more: African Folk Hero Art

Simple drawing of a fox colored in with pastels

61. Draw a fox step-by-step

First graders are just starting to move away from stick figures and into more advanced drawing. Hit the link for a step-by-step tutorial that even little ones can follow with oil pastels.

Learn more: Draw a Fox

Bottle outlines filled in with markers, with overlaps showing blended colors

62. Color blend on bottle prints

This is a neat way to learn about color blends. Imagine the bottles lined up in a sunny window and use markers, paints, or crayons to fill in the colors you’d see.

Learn more: Colored Bottle Prints

Clay fish mounted on sticks stuck into clay bases

63. Sculpt speckled fish

This 1st grade art project requires a kiln for best results. The real star of the show is the magic glaze , which bursts into cool patterns when fired.

Learn more: Clay Fish

Step-by-step instructions for drawing a bird

64. Teach them to draw little birdies

Kids will be amazed when they learn to draw this simple bird starting with an arrow. They’ll also love designing birdhouses for their avian friends, which culminates in a fantastic classroom display that’s perfect for spring.

Learn more: Bird Drawing

Scarecrow artwork made from scraps of paper

65. Design autumn scarecrows

After painting a vivid background of sky and fields, students root through the scrap paper bin to assemble colorful scarecrows for the finishing touch. (Tip: Create templates to make it easier for them to cut out the pants, shirt, and hat.)

Learn more: Autumn Scarecrows

66. Make fine art with some fine lines

Start with a sheet of circles (pre-printed, or have kids trace them from templates). Then have firsties add bold lines to design a variety of faces. This quick and simple activity is lots of fun and really sets their creativity free.

Learn more: Line Drawings

Drawing of alphabet soup with a spoon mounted on top

67. Whip up a bowl of alphabet soup

Yup, this is really a 1st grade art project! Kids practice their letters and learn about mixed media, tackling the activities in steps. The plastic spoons with alphabet letters added at the end really make the pieces pop!

Learn more: Alphabet Soup

68. Construct colorful 3D houses

Learn about architecture styles and skills, then design paper-bag houses. Encourage students to add plenty of personal details to make the designs their own.

Learn more: Paper Bag Houses

Owl eyes made with bits of colored paper

69. Put together mosaic owls

Paper mosaics are like a puzzle you create yourself, plus they give kids practice with scissor skills. And these owl faces are just adorable!

Learn more: Mosaic Owls

70. Swim with seahorses

This bright project is inspired by Eric Carle’s Mister Seahorse . Kids use a variety of art methods to create these cheery underwater scenes.

Learn more: Mixed Media Seahorses

A little boy stands in front of a bulletin board with wings sticking out on either side of him.

71. Spread your wings

This is such a unique way to incorporate an entire grade into one project while also creating the cutest photo op ever!

Learn more: Wing Photo Op Art

Paper cupcakes decorated with colorful patterns

72. Frost Thiebaud-inspired cupcakes

Learn about realism in art, and take a look at Wayne Thiebaud’s colorful paintings of pastries for inspiration. Then make your own patterned cupcakes with torn-paper frosting. Yum!

Learn more: Cupcake Art

Keep the creativity going with these Fun First Grade Writing & Storytelling Prompts !

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Keep firsties fun going all year long with this roundup of creative, simple, and enjoyable 1st grade art projects anyone can do!

Examples of second grade art projects including a girl holding an ice cream sculpture and a 3D hot air balloon drawing.

44 Second Grade Art Projects Full of Imagination and Creativity

Reading self-portraits, clay snails, and much more! Continue Reading

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45 High School Art Project Ideas For Your Next Creative Assignment
Art is a medium of expression that can be exhibited through endless ways and creative means. Its beauty lies in the fact that its boundaries are limitless and each art piece can be interpreted according to individual tastes and life experiences. Thus, choosing a high school art project idea for high school students can be ... School Art Project Ideas For Your Next Creative Assignment" class ...
50+ Creative Art Project Ideas For College Students
Art class in college is a time to expand your palette and try new techniques! Here are well over 50 creative art project ideas. Embarking on art projects is not just a way to fill the time between college lectures and exams; it's a crucial element of personal and educational growth for college students.Creativity thrives when minds are given the freedom to explore, and art projects offer a ...
200+ Interesting Art Topics Ideas By Professionals
Here is an interesting list of art therapy topic ideas that you can consider before starting your writing process. Art therapy as an industry. Art Therapy a Form of Psychotherapy. Art Therapy in Abused Children. Art for Communities and Families. Art therapy and the creative process. Benefits of art therapy.
100 Art Project Ideas for High Schoolers
Try these art project ideas for high schoolers below! Abstract painting using unconventional tools (e.g., a toothbrush, sponge, or credit card). - Check out my video on 9 different brushstrokes here! Design a poster for a social or environmental cause. Collaborative group painting with each student contributing a section.
50 Collaborative Art Projects That Bring Out Kids' Creative Side
3. Layer a drip mural. Kids will surely find Jen Stark's colorful art exciting and inspiring. For this collaborative art project, have them each make their own "drip" piece, then layer them together for one big finished mural. Learn more: Jen Stark-Inspired Mural. Mrs. Robert's Art Room via Instagram.
Art project ideas for students: tips and inspiration
The Student Art Guide provides advice from experienced art teachers and offers step-by-step guidelines for selecting an excellent subject, topic or theme. The collection of articles below includes lists of art topics for students, art assignment ideas, as well as advice for selecting themes for coursework projects.
Art Project Ideas: A Guide to Subject Matter Selection
Step 1: Brainstorm Ideas. Write down all subjects, themes, places, things, activities or issues that are personally relevant and that matter to you (even random, unexpected things, such as a the art room sink, or heirloom knives and forks in your kitchen drawer). The purpose of any artwork is to communicate a message: to comment or scream or ...
Art Projects for Adults
Bring that sense of ready-set-go with an art project that you take on in three 20-minute bursts. + First, spend no more than a minute (!) picking your subject, putting in your horizon line and massing in big shapes and roughly marking shadow shapes. Be loose, be gestural, be experimental. And set a timer for 20 minutes!
35 Unique Fifth Grade Art Projects To Tap Into Kids' Creativity
These project ideas will expose them to new artists and concepts and help them find the creative artist within! In Art We Trust . 1. Illustrate your name. This is a perfect project to kick off the school year. Kids illustrate their names with items that fit their style and personality. ... This is part fifth grade art project, part writing ...
16 Art Projects That Only Require Basic Supplies
11. Add doodles to everyday objects. Whimsy is the rule of the day when kids add doodles to objects from around the house. This quick and easy idea really brings out the creativity! Learn more: Art Ed Guru. 12. Paint crayon resist art. Break out that seldom-used white crayon and use it to create resist art.
27 Art Activities and Lessons to Try at Home
To encourage your students to take note of the world around them, encourage them to participate in the " View From My Day " drawing challenge. Other Drawing Activities: Turn Your Markers into Paint. Stuffed Animal Drawings. Drawing the Human Form. Digital Drawing Ideas. Visual Journaling Ideas. Line Drawing Lessons.
7 Easy Art Lessons For When You're in a Pinch
The following seven activities are easily adaptable for various grade levels. They also require minimal material prep and use supplies you likely have in your art room. 1. Personal Soda Can Label. We live in a consumer world where new beverages, food, candy, and snacks are constantly introduced to the market.
100 Sketchbook Prompts Your Students Will Love
Draw junk food and the wrapper. Draw your favorite food. Create your own restaurant. Draw the restaurant, your executive chef, and a 12-item menu. Draw the ingredients or process of your favorite recipe. Draw salt and pepper shakers. Draw fresh fruit or vegetables, or something fresh from the oven.
50 Art Prompt Ideas to Ignite Your Creativity and Fuel Your ...
Art Prompts for Art Block. If you're struggling with an art block, here are some art prompts that may help: Draw something small and intricate. Illustrate your favorite song lyrics. Paint a picture using your non-dominant hand. Draw a portrait of someone you don't know. Create a piece using found objects.
42 Art Prompts for Discovering New Creative Ideas
Mark Making and More Art Prompts. >> With your arm extended and your body away from your creating surface, begin your mark making. >> Using charcoal, add darker values or mark making. >> With your hand or a chamois, smudge your charcoal. >> With whatever medium your are working, use your non-dominant hand. >> Bring in highlights with a white ...
These Art Ideas Will Get Your Creative Juices Flowing
Sculpt some of these polymer clay ideas: a portrait of your dog or cat. a collection of fantastic fungi. a variety of beads (make a necklace afterward) a catch-all dish for your keys. a tiny face planter for an air plant. a faux marble pair of earrings. Learn all about polymer clay and the tools you'll need in our handy guide.
25 Unique Art Projects for Middle Schoolers
This project is particularly personal and will reflect each student's individuality. Learn more: Mixed Media Collage at Anita Sagastegui. 4. Animal mosaics. Davis Art/All in Pieces via davisart.com. Some art projects for middle schoolers are complex but well worth the effort.
36 Elementary Art Lessons for Kids
35 Popsicle Stick Crafts for Kids. 36 Elementary Art Lesson Plans for Kids. Wassily Kandinsky Art Lesson + Circle Collage. Jackson Pollock Art Lesson & Activity. Alien Name Creatures. Piet Mondrian Art Lesson + Activity. Styrofoam Printing. Pointillism Art for Kids. Collaborative Watercolor Painting.
101 Art Inspiration Ideas To Help You Find Creative Inspiration
A long list of art inspiration ideas. 1. Create a painting inspired by your favorite artist or song lyrics. 2. Illustrate a scene from a dream you recently had. 3. Draw a self-portrait using only geometric shapes. 4. Sketch a bustling cityscape from a bird's-eye view.
499+ Art Ideas to Ignite Your Imagination!
Painting & Drawing Art project ideas. 1. Galactic Watercolors: Paint the galaxy using watercolors on dark paper.. 2. Sunset Silhouettes: Draw silhouettes against a vibrantly painted sunset.. 3. Shadow Tracers: Use natural sunlight to trace shadows of objects onto your canvas.. 4. Acrylic Pour: Experiment with colors through the fluidity of acrylic pour techniques.
100+ Creative Personal Art Project Ideas
10. Drawing pin art. This is a simple way to create pictures that literally stand out. All you need is: Then either sketch out a design or go freestyle and create and sculpture the image you want. Spell out names and dates out quotes to make unusual art gifts for friends and family. 11. Lego box art.
37 Easy Art Projects for Kids of All Ages
3. Fork Print Tulips. Toddler at Play/Fork Stamped Tulip via toddleratplay.com. This project is both cute and simple, requiring only a fork, some heavyweight paper, and some paints. This project would be especially perfect for a Mother's Day gift. Learn more: Fork Tulip at Toddler at Play. 4. Paper Bag Monster.
12 October Nail Ideas & Colors That Capture the Month Perfectly
12 October Nail Ideas & Colors That Capture the Month Perfectly. October is one of the best months to try out new nail designs, like these lovely autumn themes and spooky-season styles. By Casey Gamble. Casey Gamble. ... Nail art brushes; OPI top coat; Shimmery Reddish-Brown for a Day Out.
72 Creative 1st Grade Art Projects Students Will Love
20. Weave wishbone sticks. This project can be adapted for any age, but for 1st grade art students, use thick, chunky yarn and sticks with a wide "V," along with blunt plastic darning needles. The "in and out" pattern of the yarn will help improve dexterity and fine motor skills. Learn more: Wishbone Sticks.

45 High School Art Project Ideas For Your Next Creative Assignment

Choosing An Art Project Idea

High School Art Project Ideas

Significance Of Introducing Students To High School Art Projects

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50 Creative Art Project Ideas For College Students

Unlocking Your Creativity

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Another Idea: Collaborative Pieces and Group Projects

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Digital Art and Tech Integration

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Art Project Ideas: A Guide to Subject Matter Selection

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100 Sketchbook Prompts Your Students Will Love

100 Sketchbook Prompts Your Students Will Love

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Get Your Creative Juices Flowing With Art Ideas for Drawing, Painting, and Beyond

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