Ultimate Collage Lesson + One Artist Study Freebie You'll Love

Do you love teaching art history? Ever get tired of the ubiquitous artists that every art lesson seems to focus on? Here’s one you’ll love! Plus, keep reading to the end for a free lesson plan!

Unveiling the Legacy of John Bratby

Introducing John Bratby, a lesser known but compelling figure whose legacy continues to shape the artistic landscape. Born in 1928, Bratby played a pivotal role in the post-war British art scene, leaving an indelible mark as a prominent member of the "Kitchen Sink" school of artists.

This school sought to depict the ordinary aspects of daily life with raw and unfiltered authenticity. Bratby's distinct style, characterized by bold colors and textured brushwork, brought a refreshing departure from traditional artistic norms.

As we embark on the Daffodil Collage featuring John Bratby Artist Study, it becomes imperative to unravel the layers of Bratby's life and work. His influence reached beyond the canvas, inspiring a generation of artists to find beauty in the mundane. The raw honesty embedded in Bratby's paintings transcends time, providing a timeless source of inspiration for budding artists. This exploration serves not only as an homage to a visionary artist but as a journey into the ethos that defined an era.

Get the Bratby Daffodil Leson HERE

Bratby's Style and Simple Drawings

Bratby's artistic repertoire extends far beyond the strokes of his brush; it encapsulates a philosophy that encourages students to explore their unique artistic voices. The Daffodil Collage project becomes a canvas for students to assimilate Bratby's bold use of color and textured brushwork. By delving into Bratby's techniques, students gain insights into the deliberate choices an artist makes – the marriage of form and emotion, the interplay of light and shadow, and the art of transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.

As students immerse themselves in Bratby's style, they discover that this exploration is not a mere replication but an invitation to infuse their own creations with emotion and authenticity. Bratby becomes a mentor, guiding students to look beyond the surface, teaching them that art is not just about what is seen but about the emotional resonance it evokes. In this way, the Daffodil Collage project serves as a conduit for creative expression, where Bratby's influence becomes a catalyst for the emergence of unique artistic voices.

Get the Bratby Daffodil Leson HERE

Connecting Art to the Contemporary World

Art history is not confined to the past; it is a living, breathing entity that resonates in the present. The Daffodil Collage featuring John Bratby Artist Study bridges the temporal gap, connecting the rich tapestry of Bratby's era to the contemporary world of art. As students explore Bratby's life and work, they come to realize that his influence extends far beyond a specific period; it becomes a living thread that weaves through the fabric of artistic expression today.

Through this exploration, educators facilitate a seamless connection between historical art movements and the diverse expressions of contemporary artists. Bratby's legacy becomes a touchstone for students to navigate their own artistic landscapes. The Daffodil Collage project, framed within the context of Bratby's contributions, transcends being a mere art activity; it becomes a journey into the evolution of artistic thought, where the past informs the present, and the present becomes a canvas for future artistic explorations.


I’m Amanda, and I align standards and integrate content to help teachers meet the needs of the Whole Child in art class! I have yet to find a standard that I couldn’t teach through art, and I want to share it all with you.

Not sure where to start with bringing art and content together? This freebie guide is packed with 25 ideas to align your art lessons with math and ELA standards. Your students will be crafting art and practicing algebraic thinking. Win-win!

I want all students to feel successful in the art room, so I created a standards-based Daffodil Collage lesson to do just that! The lesson includes an artist study, student reflection, and more, so push your artists to their full potential.

Follow along on my Instagram page for more tips on teaching the Whole Child in the art room!

Connecting art and content together doesn’t have to be mind-boggling. I’ve made it simple with 25 math and ELA art lesson starters - for free! Plus, I included 15 worksheets for students to reflect on their art-making journey.

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Why Social Emotional Learning Through the Arts Is Not a Fad