While Henri Rousseau's work was not easily classified into any definitive artistic style of the time--impressionism, post-impressionism, fauvism, or cubism--it has been considered a forerunner of surrealism because of its dreamlike sensibility. This teaching guide provides information about Rousseau and his work, focusing on "Tropical Forest…

The drawings and paintings of Franz Kline are discussed. The schedule of a traveling exhibit of Kline's work is provided. (RM)

This teachers' guide investigates three National Gallery of Art paintings included in the exhibition "Picasso: The Early Years, 1892-1906." The guide is intended for teachers of middle school and high school students. It includes background information on Pablo Picasso's life and early career, discussion questions, and suggested…

Henri Matisse painted "Open Window, Collioure" in the summer of 1905, when he and Andre Derain worked together in Collioure (France), a small Mediterranean fishing port near the Spanish border. This teaching guide discusses the painting "Open Window, Collioure" and Matisse's use of light and vibrant color. The guide provides…

In a voluntary summer program, Kingston High School students can work with internationnaly-recognized muralist Anton Refregier. (SJL)

When talented students interact directly with professional artists, both gain new insights and a renewed excitement about art. An apprenticeship program can be developed by an art teacher as part of a regular high school program. How one high school did it is described. (RM)

Mary Cassatt's paintings and graphics depict the world of 19th-century women, mothers, and children. Her exploration of intimate domestic life is informed by an unsurpassed ability to capture the natural, sometimes awkward poses of her figures and her refusal to "prettify" her subjects. This teaching guide gives an overview of Cassatt's…

The Peale family could be termed the "first family" of U.S. art. The patriarch, Charles Willson Peale, was an accomplished painter, scientist, inventor, founder of museums and art societies; his dynasty included his nine children and his younger brother, James Peale. This teaching guide discusses their diverse contributions to U.S. art…

Describes one summer offering of the Palo Alto schools which correlates productive activities with appreciation for art. (Author/RK)

The article presents ideas for using Van Gogh's painting, "Irises," to teach elementary students about floral still lifes and the use of space, light, and other aspects of composition. It includes a poster of "Irises" along with suggestions and activities for using it to explore the elements of art. (SM)

This teaching guide gives a brief overview of The Netherlands during Johannes Vermeer's career and describes and discusses his painting "The Girl in the Red Hat." The guide presents illustrations of four of Vermeer's paintings. It suggests activities for elementary school, middle school, and high school. (BT)

Offers a lesson plan for acquainting students in grades 10-12 with the dimensions of style and technique of still life painting in the United States during the late nineteenth century. Uses William Michael Harnett's "Plucked Clean" to convey concepts of composition. Suggests instructional strategies and outlines a studio activity. (KO)

This teaching guide discusses Edgar Germain Hilaire Degas (1834-1917), his paintings, and his sculpture. The guide focuses on his paintings of daily activities at the horse racetrack in Paris (France). The unit has a concise biography of Degas. It is divided into two parts: Part 1: "Paintings and Drawings" (Kimberly Jones); and Part 2:…

Suggests the use of Sumi-e painting with its emphasis upon simplicity as a means of motivating students to explore a new and interesting form of visual expression. Describes an activity which involves a demonstration of this art form. Includes a chart showing the seven basic Japanese Sumi-e strokes. (KO)

This guide presents a brief history of the Pueblo Indians of the Southwest, their traditions, and their art. Focus is on painting, a traditional art form that continues to be practiced, and on ceremonies and beliefs that are important elements of contemporary Pueblo society. The guide is designed for students of ages 10 through 14, but can be…