Felt-tip Pen Art Activity Inspired by Artist Keith Haring

We're excited to introduce you to a dynamic and expressive art activity that you and your child can enjoy together at home: Creating Artworks in the Style of Keith Haring! This project is inspired by the iconic art of Keith Haring, known for his bold lines, vibrant colors, and playful figures, and it provides a wonderful opportunity for children to explore creativity and self-expression.

About Keith Haring:

Keith Haring (1958-1990) was an American artist whose work emerged from the New York City street culture of the 1980s. His distinctive style featured simple yet expressive figures, often in motion, and his artwork often addressed social and political issues. Haring's bold lines and vibrant colors became synonymous with the spirit of urban art and activism.

Activity Overview:

Objective: To create artworks inspired by Keith Haring's style using felt-tip pens.

Materials Needed:

• Felt-tip pens in bold colors (such as red, blue, yellow, black, and white)

• Drawing paper or sketchbook

• Reference images of Keith Haring's artwork (easily found online)

Duration: Flexible, depending on the complexity of the artworks and the child's pace.

Instructions:

1. Introduction to Keith Haring:

• Begin by introducing your child to the art of Keith Haring. Show them examples of his work and discuss his use of bold lines, vibrant colors, and simple yet expressive figures.

• Talk about Haring's influence on popular culture and his commitment to using art as a means of social activism.

2. Explore Haring's Style:

• Encourage your child to examine the elements of Haring's style, such as the use of bold lines, dynamic figures, and repetitive patterns.

• Discuss how Haring often used his artwork to convey messages of love, unity, and social justice.

3. Create Artworks:

• Using felt-tip pens, invite your child to create their own artworks inspired by Keith Haring's style. They can draw figures, animals, or abstract shapes, incorporating bold lines and vibrant colors.

• Encourage them to experiment with different poses and expressions to capture the energy and movement characteristic of Haring's work.

4. Reflect and Discuss:

• After completing their artworks, take some time to reflect on the experience with your child. Discuss the techniques and ideas they explored and how they were inspired by Keith Haring's style.

• Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings about the process of creating art and the messages they hope to convey through their artworks.

Tips for Success:

• Foster a supportive and encouraging environment where your child feels free to explore their creativity.

• Remind them to have fun and embrace the playful and energetic spirit of Keith Haring's art.

• Display their finished artworks proudly to celebrate their creativity and accomplishment.

We hope you and your child enjoy this Keith Haring inspired art activity! Feel free to adapt the activity to suit your child's interests and artistic style.

Happy creating!