ARTistic Pursuits {Schoolhouse Review Crew}

The past several months, Botanist Boy has been working on writing a couple books. I think it would be a good idea if he could also illustrate them himself. I was so pleased to have the opportunity to use and review Middle School 6-8 Book One: The Elements of Art and Composition, 3rd Edition, from ARTistic Pursuits.

We reviewed one of the high school levels a year or so ago; ever since then, I have been looking forward to the chance to use ARTistic Pursuits with the Botanist Boy.

My boy is very shy about his sketches, because he thinks he can't draw. He is actually very artistic and creative. He thrives on creativity, and doing things with his hands. I hoped the lessons from ARTistic Pursuits would give him the boost and encouragement he needs. Frankly, I think the "problem" is more of a mental attitude problem than lack of ability.

The Elements of Art and Composition covers:

The Elements of Art
Space
Line
Space and Line Variation
Texture
Lines and Textures
Shape
Form
Value
Line Values

Composition
Center of Interest
Values and Forms
Balance, Symmetry
Balance, Asymmetry
Rhythm
Space Without Depth
Solid spaces and Lines
Space With Depth
Perspective
Proportion

One thing I really like is that at the front of the book,on the same page as the table of contents, there is a list of necessary art supplies. Fortunately we had nearly everything on hand already for the first semester. You can find that list here.

Another thing I like is how each unit is broken down in to four lessons, covering: Vocabulary and Creative Exercise; Art Appreciation; Art History; Techniques; and Application.

I finally managed to persuade Botanist Boy to go out, study a tree, and attempt to sketch it. Perhaps he is some what perfectionistic, and expects his sketches to turn out exactly like he pictures it in his mind, and gets discouraged when it doesn't.

Some of his sketches. The bottom one is an illustration for one of the books he's writing.

I plan to encourage him to finish Book 1, so he can learn more about art history, art appreciation, techniques, and composition. Hopefully in the future I'll be able to share more of his sketches and artwork!

Perhaps Little Bit would enjoy one of the Early Elementary or Elementary level books! I like that there are so many levels to help children of all ages.

ARTistic Pursuits offers several levels: Preschool (ages 3-5); Early Elementary (grades K-3); Elementary (grades 4-5); Middle School (grades 6-8); and High School (grades 9-12). Each book costs $47.95.

Contact information:
Website
Email
Address:
Artistic Pursuits Inc.
2626 East 109th Avenue
Northglenn Colorado 80233
Phone: 303-467-0504
FAX: 208-567-4269

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