Teaching abstract art and figures to your students can be super simple. Not to mention, really fun. In this blog, I’ll talk about the abstract art lesson I use with my 2nd grade students through a project using works of Joan Miro.

Abstract Art Recap

Abstract art uses visual language of shape, form, color and line to create a piece of artwork usually from visual reference and focuses on achieving an effect rather than presenting a strict likeness.

This alone makes it easy to teach to students of all ages while allowing their creativity to really show through the art they create. 

An Abstract Art Lesson with Joan Miro Works

To start this 2nd grade abstract art lesson, I had the students look at works of Joan Miro that showed different types of figures. Joan Miro was a painter who combined abstract art with Surrealist fantasy. Much of his work was influenced by the scenic seaside town, and the distinct style that he found in the area. Tips like these can create good and extended teaching points.

Once introduced to his work, we did a directed drawing together to get started drawing the figure. With this being a younger group of students, it works exceptionally well to incorporate directed drawing to help give them a visual of how to draw something.

After directed drawing, the students were able to begin exploring doing it on their own and trying new and different marks. This is where their creativity begins to come forth. From a teacher’s perspective, you can also see how much of the technique they quickly picked up.

When they were confident in their ability to draw an abstract figure, they drew their final choice on their project paper. They traced with a black Sharpie, added color with crayons and watercolor cakes, then added various papers (scrapbook paper, origami paper, foil, etc.).

Want to bring Joan Miro abstract into your classroom? My five-star (seriously, check out the reviews) Joan Miro Art Game will be the perfect addition to your abstract art unit. The lesson includes a game sheet, an artwork compare and contract, finished example, biography page, and more! It’s the ideal well-rounded activity. See what others had to say -

Hard to find good, accessible art projects for Miro. This one is easy, but the kids' art pieces end up looking wonderful! I love the self evaluative components, too. - Tracey K.

Things to Keep in Mind When Teaching Art Technique to Children

When teaching art to children, the goal should always be to keep them engaged while inspiring them to embrace creativity. A few other things to keep in mind are:

• Always have supplies on hand as well as a stash of mixed media that can be used to enhance a project.

• Copying masterpieces (like with the lesson above) offers a unique educational experience.

• Try different art styles and give children the liberty with what they create.

• Incorporate art during read-alouds. 

These tips and the activity above are just a few ways to create art lessons for your students. I’d love to hear from you. What are some ways you teach abstract art to your students?