RECYCLED CARDBOARD CANVAS

This has become one of our very favourite activities, introduced to us by the OH-SO-AMAZING Art Bar Blog! It’s big art at its best and it’s a wonderful way to bring together a community of little (and big!) artists.

WHAT YOU NEED:

• a large cardboard box

• additional items from the recycling bin (e.g. paper tubes, cereal boxes, etc.)

• scissors

• hot glue gun

• paint

• paintbrushes

• pastels

• stickers

HOW TO MAKE:

1. Break apart the large cardboard box so you have a flat working surface or “canvas” to add onto.

2. Break apart the items from the recycling bin and use scissors to make interesting shapes or pieces. You can also cut cardboard pieces to create fringes or flaps, adding texture to the overall canvas.

3. See if there are any other recycling bin treasures you can add to the canvas. We added small plastic containers and plastic lids!

4. Lay all of your materials out on top of the canvas. Arrange them in a way that makes your heart sing and then hot glue them in place.

5. Get out the paint and paintbrushes and invite the artists to paint until their hearts sing along with yours

6. Allow canvas to dry.

7. Add additional details with stickers or pastels!

ACTIVITY EXTENSION:

• Write a story or draw a picture showing the artists who worked together to create the canvas!

CONNECTION STARTERS:

• What are some other ways we can use these recycled materials?

• Which parts of the canvas do you like to paint on the most? Why?

• Did you have any challenges while working with other artists? How did you solve these problems?

THINGS TO CELEBRATE & ENCOURAGE:

• Collaborating with others

• Sharing materials

• Using appropriate amounts of paint

• Showing thoughtfulness in their work

The recycled cardboard canvas featured here was created by 3 to 7 year olds. Isn’t it stunning?!

We hope you have fun creating one of your own!

Happy connecting! <3

XOXO,

Lindsay