Exploring Materials: Mark Making

In the Art Studio at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, we see our youngest visitors interested in mark-making: the interaction between the learner’s own actions, surfaces, and materials. As educators, we can create spaces for these kinds of sensory experiences; providing children with opportunities for imaginative play and helping develop their understanding of the world around them.

In this hands-on and discussion-based workshop, we take an in-depth look at how mark-making inspires a wide range of creative, sensory experiences. We’ll play drawing games, look at images from the Art Studio’s past mark-making experiences, and discuss how mark-making develops skills for self-expression, engages motor skills, and can be supported by accessible, sustainable, and affordable materials. We will also discuss material selection, preparation, and set-up to support exciting, safe, and enriching explorations. Participants will receive a copy of the presentation with supporting materials including supplemental readings, thematic book lists, and material recommendations.

(2 PDPs) Certificate of completion hours for teachers and early educators are available for both professional development and workshop offerings at The Carle.

Carle Community Fund Scholarship Application

We work to provide accessible programming. If you need accommodation to participate in this program, please contact Natalie at programs@carlemuseum.org. We ask that requests are sent at least five business days in advance of the program so we can make arrangements. Thank you!

Materials List:

Drawing Tools (pencils, pens, crayons, markers, etc)

4-5 sheets of paper (any kind that the drawing tools will show-up on)