Even very young children are captivated by the dreamy and colorful work of artist Marc Chagall. His use of imagination, texture and space appeal to children's sense of whimsy. Teachers can build upon students' personal experiences to help them further understand Chagall's art.
Chagall and Childhood Memories
A discussion can begin with the teacher sharing a favorite memory. "When I was a little girl, my favorite place in the summertime was our neighborhood swimming pool." Then students should be allowed a chance to share a favorite place or event from their past. This can be done one-by-one or in a pair-and-share format.
Chagall's 1911 painting, I and the Village, could then be displayed for the students. Explanation should be given that this work tells the story of some of Chagall's childhood memory. It represents scenes from his childhood in a small Russian farm town.
The teacher can then allow students to analyze the painting and find some of the memories hidden within. Special attention should be paid to the animals, the architecture and the people.
Marc Chagall's Biographical Information
A brief biography of Marc Chagall should be included in the discussion. He was born in Russia during the late 1800's. As a boy he loved animals of all kinds. When he grew older, Marc attended art school in St. Petersburg and later painted in Paris.
Chagall expressed himself in a variety of artistic pursuits. He painted and sketched. He created rugs and tapestries. In addition, Chagall made stained glass windows for churches and designed costumes for the ballet and opera.
Many of Chagall's works echo the love he felt for his Russian heritage, his wife and his religion.
Chagall and Special Places
"Where are some of your special places?" would be a wonderful lead-in question as the teacher prepares to share Chagall's Paris Through the Window, 1913. Children can share meaningful places in their own lives. Grandma's house, Disneyland, the beach or a mountain cabin.
The teacher can ask children to close their eyes and pretend they are back in their special place. Encouragement should be given to picture the sights, sounds and aromas associated with that location.
As the children open their eyes, a print of Paris Through the Window is displayed. Discussion questions can guide them to discover one of Chagall's special places. What were the sights and sounds in this place? How does the painting tell the story of this location?
Art Lesson Application
Once discussion is complete, the students can create their own work depicting a childhood memory or a special place. Magazine collage, finger painting or pastel chalk drawings are among possible mediums appropriate to create a Chagall-inspired project.
Gabi Larson - A former schoolteacher and reading specialist, I currently use my creativity, teaching and organizational skills at home with my four ...
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