The Homeschool Art Revolution

How ‘Ugly Surprises’ In Art Can Be A Good Thing

July 31, 2022 Art History Kids Season 1 Episode 3
The Homeschool Art Revolution
How ‘Ugly Surprises’ In Art Can Be A Good Thing
Show Notes

In this episode of the Homeschool Art Revolution podcast, we dive into the intriguing concept of how 'ugly surprises' in art can actually be a good thing. We explore the work of Helen Frankenthaler, a leading figure in the abstract expressionist art movement, who revolutionized the way art is created. By rolling out unstretched canvas onto the floor and pouring paint onto it from above, she embraced a dynamic and organic approach to her art.

💡 Key Takeaway 1: Reframe the goal of art - Instead of striving for perfection, encourage experimentation and exploration in art. Embrace the unexpected and learn from "ugly surprises."

💡 Key Takeaway 2: Encourage open-ended art - Rather than giving specific instructions, provide loose prompts or art invitations. Allow kids to freely explore their creativity and make art that is meaningful to them.

💡 Key Takeaway 3: Focus on effort, not just the finished product - When commenting on your child's artwork, acknowledge and reinforce their effort and thought process. This creates a safe environment for taking creative risks and learning from mistakes.


Join me on the Art History Kids podcast as we explore these concepts and discover how art can nurture a growth mindset in our children. Let's empower the next generation of artists to embrace the unexpected and create something truly unique.