In spring 2024, we worked with eleven preschool teachers at seven schools and ECE centers. Participating teachers explored the Museum and Clyfford Still’s artwork, then developed a test experience to try with their students. Students looked, moved, painted, felt, played, and explored. Teachers provided feedback about their experiment and their recommendations for the Museum’s first pre-k experiences. We have designed this pilot experience based on their findings and suggestions.
Full implementation of Pre-K experiences will begin January 2025. In the fall of 2024, we invite teachers to experience our pilot lesson and provide feedback to ensure that our workshops are fun, developmentally appropriate, and responsive to schools’ needs. To participate as a pilot school, fill out the form on the request page.
Experience Overview:
Big Ideas:
- The Clyfford Still Museum is a place for me.
- I can play to explore materials.
- I can express my ideas and emotions.
Learning Targets:
- I can be myself.
- I can explore.
- I can play.
- I can experiment.
- My ideas are important.
What will we do?
Visit 1: Experimenting with color – In the classroom, 30 minutes
- Introduce the Museum and Clyfford Still.
- Look closer at a colorful abstract painting and share ideas and feelings.
- Play with materials to explore color and color mixing.
Visit 2: Visiting the Museum – At the Museum, 90 minutes (including transitions)
- Build community with CSM educators and feel welcome in the Museum.
- Discover ways to explore the Museum.
- Play with materials to experiment with ideas and express emotions.
- Play with colors and shapes to explore feelings.
OR
Visit 2: Exploring Abstraction – In the classroom, 30 minutes
- Build community with CSM educators.
- Respond to abstract art with movement.
- Play with colors and shapes to explore feelings.
Visit 3: Exploring Paint – In the classroom, 60 minutes
- Discover painting tools and materials.
- Choose colors and tools to experiment with paint on canvas.
- Paint on a large collaborative canvas with other students.
- Display your collaborative artwork in the classroom.