Austria-born painter, Gustav Klimt is perhaps one of the most famous names from the Vienna Art Nouveau movement and he has become one of the most influential artists in history. His body of work is very extensive and diverse but his style and techniques are engraved in all of his work.
His use of metallic pigments, gold leaves, and the incredibly detailed patterns in his paintings have had a huge impact on current artists and the art world as a whole.
Although his most famous paintings are portraits in the Art Nouveau style, we're going to use his painting "Tree of Life" to explore some of his work.
This stunning artwork is a great way to inspire our kids to explore their creativity whilst teaching them a little bit about Gustav Klimt!
Related: Easy Tree Painting for KidsLooking for more artist inspired activities to do with the little ones?
Have a look and explore these famous artists projects for kids, make a pop-art project inspired by Andy Warhol, recreate Kandinsky's Circles or get inspired by Monet water lilies!
Gustav Klimt Tree of Life Project for Kids
Gustav Klimt Tree of Life Supplies:
- Tree of Life printable template (download for free below!)
- Mod Podge glue (or similar)
- Canvas or sturdy cardstock.
- Tissue Paper in orange and yellow.
- Acrylic paint in white and black.
- Beads or jewels (optional).
- Gold glitter (optional).
Gustav Klimt Tree of Life Art Project Instructions:
STEP 1: Prepare the canvas.
Grab our free printable Tree of Life template (down below!) and print it out.
Now get ready to prep your canvas. Take your orange tissue and place it over the canvas. Glue it in place with a layer of Mod Podge. To get the golden effect, add a layer of yellow tissue paper on top.
STEP 2: Add the tree.
Once the Mod Podge has dried, it's time to paint the tree. You can paint it free hand using the template as a guide or you can cut the template out and glue it on the canvas. Alternatively you can trace the tree shape onto the tissue paper before gluing it onto the canvas.
STEP 3: Observe the original and recreate the style.
Once the tree has dried take a look at an image of Klimt's Tree of Life and then recreate some of the images and shapes he has used on the tree.
We decided to go for circles of white and black in the branches.
STEP 4: Add a pop of color.
If you want to add a pop of color add beads or any type of jewels to add some sparkle and color.
STEP 6: Extra touch.
You might want to leave your craft as it is or you could have fun adding some extra sparkle! You can go the extra mile and add gold glitter for a brighter golden effect, just like Klimt's paintings! And remember to seal your work with one last layer of Mod Podge.
To download this printable Gustav Klimt Tree of Life template for free click on the link below and use the discount code: tree. For personal or classroom use only. Not for redistribution. All images are copyrighted. Thank you.
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