Ideas for independent creative responses
Small Parts
The Theory of Small Parts was developed by architect Simon Nicholson in the 1970s. He believed that the more and differing materials that are made available then the more possibilities you have at creating something new, inventive and imaginative. This is a theory that has been seen to be of value in all education but especially with the Early Years. Often, in art we use different materials that have a variety of uses and functions - sometimes there is an unlimited amount of outcomes. For some of each art lesson the children have time to explore - there is always a provocation with some form of loose parts - see below.
Tray Tables
Using an old changing table form IKEA I have made 2 tray tables, one I painted white and one black. These tables will be used for various provocations - mainly the messy kind!! This week we have had buttons and beads with string and ribbon on the black table, the white table has had green moon sand with smooth rocks.
The Light Table
This year we have a new light table in the art room, over the past few weeks I have changed the materials that the children can investigate using light. The pictures below will give you some idea of the different ways the children decided to create with the materials.
Art from recycled materials.
We all have a wealth of materials in our homes that often we throw away BUT let your children explore and experiment with them and you will be amazed at just how creative they can be. In our art room we have a junk modelling trolley - parents kindly donate their "junk" and this term there have been some truly amazing and outstanding creations. Have a look below at the children working together, sharing resources and ideas and demonstrating how they are able to "think outside the box" - sometimes with the box!!
Why is creativity important?
All of us are creative in some way, shape or form, our creativity is what makes us unique and exploring our creative side can open up an endless amount of possibilities to discover and invent. The art room is a perfect place for everyone to interact creatively with their surroundings in a safe and structured way. Towards the end of every art lesson the children have free independent choice of a wide range of activities. These activities are structured in such a way that they are open ended and the children are able to respond to the materials without boundaries. However there is a limit to the amount of materials made available at one time to not be over stimulating.
What do the professionals think?
There are many respected educational professionals and art professionals who firmly believe in the power of encouraging and developing our children's creativity. Here are what a few of them say:
Provocations
The art room is a wonderful space to provide provocations for the children - when they have finished their taught project they have the opportunity to explore different provocations that are set up in the room. A provocation provides an opportunity for the children to interact with different art materials in an open ended way, to think outside the box, to create without limitations.