«Get creative this Labor Day Weekend. Check out these cool ideas for art activities from #MetKids!»
Make a Photogram
Follow along with Skyler, age 7, and learn how to make a photogram. The word photogram means "light drawing" in Ancient Greek.
Enjoy the summer sun! For this activity you will need sun-sensitive paper (available online and at art stores), cardboard, thumbtacks or tape, a folder or envelope, and a tray with water. To design your paper, select opaque (not see-through) materials like paper, arts and crafts supplies, or objects found in nature. Start this project indoors by taping or tacking your sun-sensitive paper to cardboard. Next, arrange opaque materials on the paper and secure those as well. Once you have finished designing, place your paper in a folder, envelope, or box to protect it from the sun. Now go outside and place your paper in the sun. After a few minutes outside, develop your paper indoors by taking off all the opaque materials from the paper and putting the paper in water for a few minutes. Admire your artwork as your print dries.
Make a Soap Carving
Follow along and learn how to make a soap carving.
You don't need to go far to get supplies to make a soap carving. Check your bathroom for a bar of soap and your kitchen for a plastic butter knife. You will also need a pencil, paper, scissors, a paper clip, and a paintbrush. Trace the outline of the bar of soap on a piece of paper. Draw your design within the outline on the paper. Cut out the shape. Place your design on the bar of soap. Then, use a pencil to lightly carve the outline of the design into the soap. Now the fun begins! Use your plastic butter knife and paper clip to carve your design. Brush away any soap dust with a paintbrush. When you finish shaping the sculpture, use a pencil to carve details.
Create Scratch Art
Follow along with Nina, age 9, and Ruby, age 8, and learn how to make scratch art using crayons.
If you like to draw, you will love this last activity. All you need is card stock, crayons, and a paper clip or toothpick. First, use light-colored crayons to completely color the card stock. Cover the light-colored crayon with black crayon, filling the entire card. Use a toothpick or the end of a partly unfolded paper clip to scratch through the black crayon, revealing your design in the colors underneath.
Have an idea for another fun activity? Ask an adult to share it in the comments below.