Wassily Kandinsky Inspired Kid Friendly Art Activity
At After-school Artists Collective, we believe that every child should have access to creative opportunities, no matter their background. So, we’re excited to share one of our favorite art activities inspired by the work of Wassily Kandinsky—a pioneer of abstract art! Kandinsky believed that colors and shapes could express emotions, and this lesson helps children explore that idea through their own creativity.
Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, teacher, or community member, you can try this fun and educational activity at home or in the classroom to teach children about some important facets of art history while expanding their creative thinking, spatial awareness, and fine motor skills.
Materials Needed:
White construction paper or canvas
Colored construction paper
Scissors
Glue
Markers
Crayons or oil pastels
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Introduction to Wassily Kandinsky
Refer to the attached slides sharing facts about Kandinsky
2. Start with a base
Inspired by the fall changing leaves, have the children draw their version of a tree trunk, to be filled with Kandinsky inspired different-sized circles on their paper using crayons or oil pastels. These circles can overlap, touch the edges of the paper, or stand alone. They can use scissors to cut out multiple different sizes of circles. Encourage children to fill the page with circles in various sizes.
4. Background and Details
Once the circles are created, children can decide what to do with the space around them. Some may want to add more circles, while others might want to color the background or leave it blank. If they like, they can use a black marker to outline the circles, just as Kandinsky often did in his pieces.
5. Discussion and Sharing
After the paintings are complete, have the kids share their artwork with each other. Encourage them to talk about the colors they used and why. Ask questions like, “What feelings do you think this color shows?” or “How does this painting make you feel when you look at it?”
6. Reflect
End the activity by reflecting on the idea that art doesn’t always have to look like something we see in the real world, and it doesn’t have to be perfect. That is the beauty of art, and specifically abstract art—it can simply be about how we feel inside. Kandinsky believed that art was a way to connect to the soul, and now, the children have created their own emotional abstract masterpieces!
Why This Activity Matters:
This activity allows children to freely express themselves and learn that art can be much more than just drawing objects or people. It helps them explore the connection between emotions and color, encourages them to think abstractly, and nurtures creativity—all in a fun, relaxed environment. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce students to the world of modern art and help them discover that there’s no “right” way to make a masterpiece!
Try It at Home or in the Classroom!
Feel free to try this Kandinsky-inspired activity with your kids or students. It’s a simple, low-cost way to spark creativity and introduce them to important art concepts. If you do, we’d love to see their finished artwork! Tag us on social media or share photos with us, and let’s celebrate the incredible creativity of our community’s young artists.
At After-school Artists Collective, we’re passionate about fostering creativity and artistic exploration in underserved New York City schools. This lesson taught in our partnering Harlem Elementary school, is just one example of how art can be both fun and educational. For more activities and ways to support our mission, explore our website and see how you can get involved!