Creative Arts in Montessori

One of our key aspects of the Montessori curriculum is to give equal emphasis to the creative arts. We encourage children to be creative in all aspects of their learning; and we see some inspiring and unique pieces of work emerge. 

As part of our visual arts program this term (Term 1, 2024) we are exploring the seven elements of art: line, shape, colour, value, perspective and texture in relation to the cosmos. Each week we meet as a whole cycle to learn about a different aspect of art history and art making. We analyse artworks and discuss the ways in which artists use the different elements of art to communicate ideas and emotions. We locate the different elements of art within the natural world and discuss the relationship between art and the cosmos. 

After each lesson the children are invited to create their own artworks using any medium of their choice. They are encouraged to focus on one element of art each week and to consider the message or story they wish to convey through their artmaking. Children are free to complete this artwork any time during the work cycle, which enables them the time to delve deeply into the artmaking process.

Maria Montessori's view on Creative Arts 

Montessori believed that creativity stems from both technical competency as well as the freedom of the spirit. By teaching the children one element of art at a time, they are able to develop skills in isolation. They are afforded ample time to experiment with this skill alone, before integrating other skills and techniques which leads to technical competency. We promote the freedom of the child's spirit by inspiring children to use art for personal expression. Children are encouraged to find their own unique creative voice, rather than duplicating someone else’s creativity.