This invitation to explore encourages and exposes children to several elements of learning. To set this up print out images of Amy Sherald's art, laminate them, and provide blocks or loose parts to match. We used our Rock Blocks.
First things first the concept is to have the child match the colored blocks to the image.This helps build visual perception and thinking skills when they are sorting the objects to match the colors. Children can sort colors before naming them, so this aides in enhancing their color recognition skills.
As mentioned in previous post, when children learn about famous artists the more well rounded and creative they become. Art is a fundamental component of early childhood. Exposure leads to seeing the beauty around them and in others.
If your child has zero interest in color matching or they simply want to explore through building with the blocks or adorning the images with loose parts, then so be it. There is so much learning within that as well.
Now about the artist! Amy Sherald is an American Painter who does portraits depicting African Americans in everyday settings. Her unique vibrant colors and subjects are timeless. Her best known work to date is the famous portrait of former first lady Michelle Obama.
This invitation is another way to celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth. There is no right or wrong way to do it. It is all about honoring beautiful art, developing language, enhancing skills, spreading culture, and even some STEM through building with the blocks.
