Meet Wassily Kandinsky
#4 of 30 in Meet the Artist Series
What’s inside...
Meet the Artist is a captivating book series by Read With You that introduces young readers to the world of art. Through the pages of Meet Wassily Kandinsky, readers explore the connection between art and music as explained by Kandinsky himself, a pioneer in abstract art. The book combines interesting facts with beautiful artwork, engagingly presented by the artists. It encourages readers to practice reading skills, examine art like experts, and enjoy activities that foster creativity. This series not only highlights famous artwork but also helps readers appreciate the subtle details and personal touches that make each piece unique.
Discussion points
What colors and shapes did you notice in Kandinsky's paintings? How do they make you feel?
Kandinsky believed that art could be deeply connected to music. Can you think of a song that reminds you of one of the paintings we saw?
Why do you think Kandinsky chose to use such abstract forms instead of painting real objects?
If you could ask Kandinsky one question about his artwork, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Initiate the conversation by describing a piece of artwork in the book to build your child's curiosity. Use descriptive language to enhance the sensory experience. Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the art, fostering a deeper emotional and intellectual connection. Lastly, relate the discussion to everyday experiences, such as comparing the abstract forms to objects or scenes they are familiar with, to make the content more relatable and memorable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and self-expression
Explanation: The story of Wassily Kandinsky focuses on his journey of becoming an influential abstract artist, encouraging young readers to explore their own unique ways of expressing themselves through art.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in art projects at school or at home, using their imagination to create original artwork that reflects their personal feelings and ideas.
Example Lesson: Persistence in following one’s passion
Explanation: Kandinsky's evolution from a law career to becoming an artist demonstrates the value of pursuing one's passion despite obstacles and societal expectations.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to persistently pursue their interests, whether they are in arts, sports, or any other field, even when faced with challenges.
Example Lesson: Innovation and thinking outside the box
Explanation: Kandinsky was a pioneer in abstract art, a style that didn’t follow traditional art norms. His work teaches children the importance of innovative thinking and exploring new ideas.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to solve problems in unconventional ways, whether in their academic subjects or in everyday challenges, promoting creative thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Appreciating different perspectives
Explanation: As an abstract artist, Kandinsky viewed scenes and objects in unique ways, which can teach children to appreciate and consider multiple perspectives and interpretations in art and in life.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children to understand and respect differing viewpoints among their peers, enhancing their social interactions and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Cultural and historical awareness
Explanation: Exploring Kandinsky's Russian background and experiences throughout historical events informs about the cultural and historical contexts that can influence artistic expression.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to learn and explore different cultures and histories, broadening their global awareness and fostering a more inclusive worldview.