Let’s experiment with watercolors. Today, we feel inspired to paint some whales from our imagination.
Getting started
You’ll need:
- Watercolor paper or thick paper (we used a paper plate)
- Watercolor paints
- Paint brushes
- A cup of water
- Paper towels (for dabbing your brushes and clean up)
- Imagination
- Optional: Table covering or smock to protect table and clothes
Watch video for inspiration…
Need an idea for getting started? Try searching online for artworks or images of whales. You might also ask yourself:
- What type of whale will I draw? There are many kinds: Blue, humpback, beluga, etc.?
- Will I paint something to look realistic, cartoonish or something from my imagination?
- What colors will I use? Pastels or bright colors?
- Will my painting have other elements, such as fish, coral, boats, scuba divers, etc.?
Remember, don’t worry about your painting looking “perfect” – focus on your experience creating and have some fun!
More whale fun & learning…
Finally, you might try these activities, too:
- Try a craft! Find some ideas for whale-themed art from the Little Fish blog.
- Add a lesson on whales. Get started with some internet research. Some resources include PBS Learning Media and Britannica Kids.
About our volunteer
Julia is a student at Arizona State University studying biology. She draws and paints to relax and think. You might find her at the museum helping at an event, but she’s often behind the scenes helping input data and prepping sample artworks for marketing events.