Art in Our Home

I'm joining The Canadian Homeschooler today for this week's challenge: Art.
Art for us, is like Christmas in July! When I pull out the art supplies, my kids know its a good day...not that all other days are bad...let just say its an extra special day.

Throughout the years, I've tried to incorporate art somehow into our homeschooling. Crafting was big when the kids were younger. It still is when I remember to hit Micheal's for seasonal craft supplies. I even had my dad, who is and amazing amateur artist, give the kids more formal lessons in art a few year back.
We are also very lucky to have some great places for art field trips. Naturally, there is the Glenbow Museum, but we are also lucky to have The Leighton Centre which is a treasure unto itself here in the Alberta Foothills.

If we don't get the chance to get out, and its my turn to step up for art, I have a few favorite websites that I draw from  lately (sorry for the pun) for inspiration now that the children are older. A few are: Hodge Podge a great blog and resource for free art lessons in pastels, Art Project for Kids ( if you dig around, you'll find some free tutorials on drawing painting, etc.) Harmony Art Mom ( another wonderful blog with art inspirations).  Have a poke around, and see what inspires you and your children. Just remember to keep it fun! Your children's ideas will astound you, and let that be the rabbit trail to follow and incorporate art into your homeschooling.

A few years back, Christian drew this,and we made Christmas cards for everyone using this image!

Drawing lessons at the Leighton Centre (a few years back)

Wire Sculpting at the Leighton Centre ( a few years ago)

Pottery class in Okotoks

Our lastest fall creations courtesy of lessons from Hodge Podge