This project is so much fun, and it's a great way to get in a little cutting practice, think about composition, and even throw in a bit of color theory. With very young children, and kids who are new to using scissors, it's a great introduction to cutting paper, because there really is no "wrong" shape. The same project can be made more challenging for older kids by asking them to emulate some of Matisse's shapes in their art.
Matisse's Cut Paper Collages
At the end of his career, Matisse began creating compositions using cut paper. He began "drawing with scissors" after some health issues left him confined to a wheelchair, and his restricted movement made it too difficult for him to paint.
Now it's your turn!
The project:
Use paper to cut and arrange a composition in the style of Henri Matisse.
You will need:
colored construction paper
scissors
a larger piece of paper or a board for your finished art
gluestick, rubber cement, or double sided tape
The process:
Use your scissors to cut shapes from the construction paper. You can try to emulate Matisse's style, or get creative and find your own style!
When you are done cutting shapes, carefully arrange them onto your larger paper or board. Think about color relationships and composition.
When everything is in the right place, glue each shape to your larger paper or board. I like glue sticks for younger kids, and rubber cement for older kids. In a pinch, you could use double sided tape. Don't use white school glue for this project... your beautiful cut-outs will end up all warped and bumpy.
I want to see your masterpiece! Share it on Instagram or Facebook and tag it #arthistorykids.
Let me know how you liked this project, I'd love to hear from you in the comments below, and be sure to join my newsletter to get more great project ideas delivered straight to you inbox!
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