The Arty Teacher

In art, negative space is the space around and between the subject of the image.  The positive space is the subject or object of the image. Why is it important? Negative space is important because it can help us to draw accurately and can help with creating an interesting composition. How can negative space help […]

When I first saw the insect art created by Rose Sanderson, I happened to be teaching my students an insect project.  I couldn’t wait to share her work with my students.  Her detailed paintings on the covers of old hardback books had instant appeal.  Art teachers often encourage students to experiment with the surfaces they […]

This year I have decided to take part in Sketchbook Circle.  It was a big decision for me to take part as I have a lot on my plate with teaching, running this website and family commitments.  But aren’t we all busy?  Isn’t it a good idea to take some time to do a little […]

Can you find the 6 differences between these two paintings? Just click on the image below to make it larger. This painting is called ‘The Rehearsal of the Ballet Onstage’ (1874) and is by an artist called Edgar Degas.  Degas carefully planned this painting and made sketches of all the figures in it first.  You […]

When I saw the stage by stage photos by art teacher Robert Bagley, I knew they would be of interest to art teachers everywhere. They are inspired by the artist Abby Diamond who is an artist I have found to be very popular with students.  Diamond combines detailed, sketchy pen drawing with loose, freely applied […]

Do we deserve a break this Christmas or what? Some evenings I’ve been on my knees and I’ve seen similar comments on social media.  This blog post details 5 ways to relax this Christmas.  There isn’t any rocket science here, but it is good to be reminded of these simple ways to ensure we unwind […]