Sensory Wonders in the Art Studio

Our art studio has been the centre of an inquiry about colour and paint for the last few weeks.

 In order to focus on the process of exploring the paint, we decided to put it directly on the table, allowing free movement on the smooth surface.

 Some children began their explorations gingerly, dipping a finger tip into the paint, hesitant about the new experience. But most children grabbed the paint with both hands and dove in. They used their whole bodies to lean into the paint, until the table was entirely covered. As the paint colours met, the children were fascinated by the new colours that appeared as if by magic.

They delighted in the silky slide of paint under their hands and between their fingers. When hands touched, the children giggled at the feel of it and wondered at the new colours created by handshakes.

Throughout the encounter, some children chatted away, explaining their thinking and intereacting with playmates. Other children were more quiet and thoughtful, immersing themselves in the experience.

 The children experiemented with different techniques to make marks in the paint.

"Every time I use different parts of body it makes a different design."

Fingernails

 It also became a medium for written language.

 After a few weeks, interest started to wane in the paint, so we removed colour and offered globs of shaving cream instead. The scent and the silky feel of the foam were a sensory delight!

"It feels soft and smooshy."

They spotted some large tubs we use at the water table and asked to use them with the shaving cream. The teachers expected them to start filling them up, but to our surprise they were more interested in "painting" the containers and rolling them through the foam.

Some friends even indulged in painting themselves!

Our sensory and artistic explorations will continue, following the interests and engagement of the children. Yesterday some people started making sculptures out of the foam, so we will encourage this activity to its full potential.