The Attleboro Public Library is now offering a new Mobile Makerspace program that allows kids ages 3-6 years and their adults to explore Process Art! On Saturday afternoons from 1:30-3pm, starting Saturday, March 3, we will offer a variety of materials for you to create with. Some weeks it will be art supplies like paint, markers and glue, some weeks it will be building objects with cardboard & other weeks new technology will be available. NO NEED TO REGISTER—just drop in any time during the 90 minute session and create!
Process art is an open-ended art activity that focuses primarily on the process of creation. Process art is an alternative to “product art,” which is when the emphasis is placed on following instructions to achieve an expected result. One type of art is about the creative process, and one is about the final product.
The Alliance for Early Childhood experts have stated that process art is developmentally appropriate for the very young, since they can explore and there is no pressure for things to look a certain way. Process art allows preschoolers to gain hands-on knowledge of how materials work. Young children are building knowledge of everything they encounter, even craft supplies!
Allowing children to create according to their own visions provides ample opportunities for discussion, so be sure to ask them questions like, “Why did you use those colors?” The very personal finished product means something to the child and is a source of pride.
Process Art
Pros:
- Gives the child a chance to really do whatever they want.
- Less pressure to make “good” art
- about just having fun.
- All about the experience.
Cons:
- Some kids freeze, not knowing where to start without having instructions to follow.
- Can lead to some mess.
- Adults often seem more hesitant to try it and experiment.
Product Art
Pros:
- Teaches the child how to follow instructions, which is useful later on in school.
- Adults enjoy displaying/talking about.
- Children bring home projects that remind them of the story time theme.
Cons:
- Limits creativity.
- Requires a lot of prep work.
- Can be costly.
- Adults often interfere with the craft.
- Concern that there is a “right” and “wrong” way to complete the craft/art.
Some information taken from the Sept 6, 2013 The Show Me Librarian blog
Some information taken from an ALSC blog post by Katie Salo
