We love using storybooks to discuss art!
Raven: A Trickster Tale from the Pacific Northwest is a great picture book to use when discussing Preston Singletary’s Raven Steals the Moon:
Preston Singletary (b. 1963)
Raven Steals the Moon, 2007
Glass, blown and sand carved
Ish is a lovely book to use to introduce the idea that art doesn’t have to be perfect or representational, and that we all see art in our own way. We often read it near the Elizabeth Murray painting Landing: Ish picture book read aloud
Elizabeth Murray (1940 – 2007), Landing, 1999, Oil on four canvases
The Pot that Juan Built is all about Juan Quezada Celado and his process, check in out!: The Pot that Juan Built read aloud (this one looks long, but the 2nd half is reading the afterward about the artist, which we don’t do on tours, but is worth watching for your own knowledge)
Juan Quezada Celado (b. 1940)
Red on Black Jar, 1999
Polychrome clay, 12 x 11.75″
These are just a few of the books we use regularly on our tours for children, especially groups that are K-2nd grade.
We are often able to find picture books that relate to special installations and temporary exhibitions as well. Right now in Actions for the Earth we have several picture books in the exhibition space itself, so families can read while they visit:
