Free Art History Curriculum: Edgar Degas

Edgar Degas is best known for his paintings of dancers, including "The Dance Class."
Edgar Degas: b. July 19, 1834 in Paris, France (find it on the globe) d. September 17, 1917 in Paris, France.

Style: Impressionist

See some of Degas' most famous paintings. You may also wish to view the artists' complete works here. (Degas painted some nudes; if desired, parents can search for images ahead of the lesson, and only share those they deem appropriate.)

Be sure to give your child plenty of time to study each work of art. Ask: What were some of Degas favorite things to paint? The style of Degas' painting is called Impressionism, but Degas called himself a realist. What's the difference between the two and why do you think Degas felt this way about his work? What are some of your favorite Degas paintings - and why? How is Degas similar to other artists we've studied? How is his work different? Degas was also known for his sculptures; you can see some here.

* Biography of Degas
* Shorter biography of Edgar Degas
* Degas for Kids at the Philadelphia Museum of Art 
* About Degas' Little Dancer, Age 14
* .PDF "Inside Scoop" from the National Gallery of Art, Washington (includes "Sculpt an Athlete" activity)
* Video: Dancers and Degas
* Coloring page: Dancer with Bouquet Curtsying
* Coloring page:  The Dancing Class
* Coloring pages (online): Various Degas Images
* Activity: Sculpt movement
* Activity: Sculpt a Dancer
* Activity: Coffee Filter Dancer (here's another variation)
* Activity: Watercolor a Ballerina
* Activity: How to Draw a Ballerina
* Activity: Make a moveable paper dancer
* Activity: Color, cut out, and play with ballerina paper dolls

Learn more about this free art history curriculum for kids, plus a list of all artists covered so far, by clicking here.

No comments