Freedom of expression is born from skill. Children in Montessori classrooms have many opportunities to strengthen their hand and their precision, allowing them to begin to individually create representations of what is in their own mind with increasing confidence. The Montessori curriculum incorporates art into many areas of the classroom, as art can bring meaning and interest to complex concepts.

Through their Montessori journey, children are exposed to the work of great artists from around the world and the wide variety of styles represented. They practice their ability to discern information about the techniques and medias used. Older children may take field trips to explore area museums and participate in workshops!

A range of art materials and activities are available to students in the classroom. Art activities in the Toddler and Primary classroom are chosen by the child from the art shelf according to interest. The adult presents how the art materials are used and the child is free to work independently, without expectation of a specific result – there is true enjoyment of the process and freedom of expression.

The child’s art naturally progresses as the child’s skills develop. Cutting exercises move from very simple to quite complex exercises. Pasting work is followed later by collage. Coloring with various media (crayons, pastels, charcoal) is available. Painting on an easel, watercolor, and clay work are presented. Handwork, including sewing and embroidery, is taught. Seasonal inspirations using different media are a prominent feature in our primary classrooms. All of the art activities help the child strengthen their hands and build greater precision.

All elementary classrooms have a range of materials available to the students. Many art projects take place in the classrooms. The students may also illustrate and create clay or other artistic expressions as part of their research projects. The art process is a rewarding experience that allows each student the freedom to explore and experiment with various media and techniques. It is through this process of self-exploration that they begin to make connections between the artistic world and their natural environment.

Students begin with the basic elements of art (line, shape, color, texture, space, value, and form) and progress to the more complex throughout the elementary program. These basic elements are the building blocks of art and are incorporated into every lesson. Over time, students begin to make connections between them and begin to develop their own visual vocabulary. Each lesson is given a name, and demonstrations are used to ensure the use of materials in a safe and responsible manner. Once the art lesson has been demonstrated, students are allowed the freedom to create and express themselves in an individual way.