Tanjore (or Thanjavur or Thanlavoor) paintings are one of the most popular traditional art forms in Southern India. These ornate religious paintings involve Hindu mythology. The paintings are noted for their adornment of gold and semiprecious stones such as rubies, emeralds, and pearls. Currently, the semiprecious stones are often substituted…

Recruit the best decorating corps you have for this year's classroom makeover--your students! Not only does involving kids save money and effort on your part, teachers agree that it increases kids' sense of involvement and respect. In this article, the author presents 10 teacher-tested ideas for a classroom that shines with color and learning: (1)…

An abstract "hand" sculpture is a good beginning project to help children understand the meaning of space and form. Here some elementary students learn what sculpture is and ways that it can be done. (Author/RK)

Presents suggestions for introducing children to collage. (RK)

Concrete suggestions for teaching group art lessons to stimulate creative expression are offered, with focus on conducting motivation sessions and providing help during ongoing activities. (MP)

Describes an artist-in-residence experience at a private Montessori school. Discusses the Montessori philosophy regarding art education, the artist's challenge to the Montessori approach, and art experiences. Asserts that the artist-in-residence demonstrated a merging of the precepts of the Reggio Emilia approach, Montessori principles, and the…

Arts Genesis, Inc. (AGI) forms partnerships with diverse communities to assist them in finding fulfillment through the arts by meeting their own self-defined needs; uses arts experiences to encourage discovery, creativity, and diversity; and continually strives for excellence in the arts and education. Arts Genesis grew out of "Project…

This curriculum module is designed to strengthen the basic knowledge of art concepts and principles of students with disabilities at the beginning elementary level. The learning of basic art principles is facilitated through art activities which encourage the student to create and accomplish tasks with success. The focus is on teaching the…

The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of using art stations in elementary classrooms and to explore strategies for the design of such stations. A range of materials for art learning stations was produced according to specific criteria. The study was conducted over a one-year period in many classrooms within one school district.…

Fifth graders manage a booming jewelry business with a $50 bank loan, basic skills and enthusiasm. (Editor)

Cites motivation as primary concern in elementary school art classes and suggests techniques and activities to stimulate pupils toward interest in art. Include photographs by Marjorie Pickens. (DS)

Suggests ways in which leather can be used as a creative medium in elementary school classroom. (DS)

Describes how art activities can create a comfortable atmosphere of valuing diversity without spotlighting the culturally different child. Guidelines are offered for using folk arts, art history, children's literature, and small-group activities. (RH)

Demonstrates the ways in which the arts can be used to express ecological concerns and promote responsible environmental stewardship. Focuses on a play and a video produced by elementary school students with the assistance of their teachers and professional artists. (MDM)