As an art educator I spend a lot of time researching lesson plans, art project ideas and discussions concerning art education. I know how overwhelming the internet can be when trying to find anything art-related. That is why I am compiling a list of resources for this blog entry. The sites listed below, are my favorite go to places for all art learning and making activities These sites are gearing for educational purposes for the K-12 learner. Enjoy!
Art Education Websites
This site serves art educators specifically. There are resources for lesson plans, curriculum and art education research. This institution is also a university and can provide classes and courses that will help an eductor earn credits. They also do yearly conferences, publish a magazine and provide pathways for degrees. There is a lot to explore here.
National Art Education Association
This is the largest art education association in the United States. This large community of art educators provides opportunities for connecting with other educators through conferences and online resources. This organization offers yearly conferences, opportunities for political involvement in art education and provide platforms art recognition for students. For those who are not in need of all the above services, their site also provide numerous resources for teachers and students.
California Arts Education Association
This association is the California chapter for the NAEA. Similarly, this site provides a platform and opportunities for art educators to connect and showcase art. They also have a variety of lesson plans and resources for educators. This is a great organization to connect with when researching how art education relates specifically to California and how educators can get more involved.
Museum Websites
I have found that museums are becoming more and more sophisticated with their online presence. Many fine art museums have online gallery tours, lesson plans, videos, blogs, community connections and more. Here are a few of my favorites:
The Metropolitan Museum of Art Projects, activities, tours for educators, students and parents.
The Los Angeles Museum of Art Lessons, projects, videos and activities
Minneapolis Institute of Art Interactive activities related to art history and art making.
The National Gallery of Art Large collection of assessable artwork that can be used for lessons.
The Smithsonian Institution An amazing learning lab full of online projects, games and lessons.
Art Making Websites
There are an array of art making websites ranging from homeschooling moms to university professor sites. The ones listed below are sites I have found to be the easiest to navigate, have the most interesting projects and their explanations of the projects are clear and easy to understand. These sites are geared for K-12 students who want to explore, learn basic art making skills and just have fun making art!
Deep Space Sparkle Very creative projects that are geared toward more elementary school aged children. There are projects for older kids too that are worth taking a look at.
That Art Teacher This site has comprehensive lesson plans for junior high and high school aged children. There is a lot of variety and skill based lessons here.
Teachers Pay Teachers This site is popular for a reason. I have found so many valuable lessons, posters for my classroom, fully developed curriculums and more here. It’s a great way to support teachers as well.
Hello Wonderful This is a mom blog that has really creative art projects geared for elementary school aged children.
Kitchen Table Classroom This is another mom blog that includes not only projects for younger kids but more complex projects for junior high aged children. There are a lot of creative projects here.
These sites are just a taste of what is out there in the world of art education. For anyone who is in need of resources regarding art education, art making or connecting with other educators and artists then the links above are a great way to get started.