Greatest Artists Series: Rembrandt

Today we learned about our next artist, Rembrandt. We read this volume of Getting to Know the World's Greatest Artists Series, and then we watched the dvd of the same title. (If you've never read any of our other reviews, we love these books written for kids. I'm not sure what ages they are geared for, but my 3, 5, and 10 year olds all pay attention to them.) There is always a little bit additional/different information in the book and video so it's great to include both. And the video greatly reinforces what we read. Previously, we've done Cassatt, Warhol, Monet, and Matisse.

It occurred to me that I couldn't think of Rembrandt's first name. Well, this is why: his name is actually Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn.

These are the things I told the kids to remember about Rembrandt:

1) He lived in the 1600's, long before the other artists we have studied, so far.

2) He often painted scenes from the Bible.

3) He is known for painting portraits. He painted many portraits of himself, more than most artists ever do. This is helpful, as there were no cameras at this time.

4) He lived in Holland.

5) His paintings were known for his amazing use of light on dark. Dark paintings were common during this time,which is like most of his work. He could paint light shining in on his subject, making it look impressively life-like.

6) Although he is mostly known for painting portraits and Biblical themes, he also drew some landscapes, often including windmills.

Since Rembrandt was from Holland, and windmills were sometimes seen in his paintings, the kids made some of their own. I sent the kids around the house looking for empty toilet paper rolls while I printed off these patterns from DLTK.

The past few weeks, Sissy has improved considerably with her coloring. Before, she would just scribble a bit here and there. Now she really fills everything in.

The boys cut out their own pieces, and I cut out Sissy's. They glued their colored rectangles around the toilet paper roll, along with their windows and door. I helped them attach the blades with a brad. From left to right: Dash's, Tornado's, and Sissy's.

This is the first week for the Mommy's Little Artist linky,

hosted by Butterfly Wishes and Wonderland Dreams.

Consider sharing any art or craft project done by your kids of any age!

I'm also joining the moms at ABC and 123 for Show and Tell!