Alma Thomas A 2473

One way to learn about Black history with kids is to study famous African-American artists and create art inspired by their work. Here are discussion points about Alma Woodsey Thomas and a mosaic project inspired by her artistry. Supplies and instructions are provided for both a paint and a mosaic version of the project.

Discussion Points for Parents/Teachers

  • Alma Woodsey Thomas, an African-American artist, was the first fine arts graduate of Howard University (in 1921). 
  • Thomas spent 38 years teaching art to middle school students in Washington D.C. before retiring and becoming a “serious artist” when she was in her 70s.
  • Alma Thomas is known for her colorful abstract art that looks like a mosaic. 
  • Her work has been displayed in many prominent museums and locations, including the Smithsonian and The White House. 
  • In 1972 Alma Thomas was the first African-American woman to have a solo art exhibition at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City (she was in her 80s at the time).

SUPPLIES

White construction paper or cardstock (I used 9” x 12”)

To do a paint project: 

Tempera paint in bright colors

Sponge “brush” (make one with a clothespin and small square of new sponge) or paintbrush

To do a paper collage: 

Scissors

Colored construction paper

White glue

DIRECTIONS

For the paint project:

  1. Paint a small circle (3” to 4”) in the middle of the paper, then rinse the sponge brush (or paintbrush).
  2. Dip the sponge in a second paint color, then dab in a circular motion around the circle. 
  3. Continue to paint in a radial fashion around each previous circle. 
  4. You can choose to alternate each row of color or paint several rows of one color before moving on to the next.
  5. Allow to dry thoroughly, then frame, if desired. 

Alma Thomas C 2473

OR, for the collage project:

  1. Cut a circle about 3 inches in diameter. Glue onto your white paper. You can place it in the center or offset it.
  2. Cut a bunch small rectangles and squares (about ½” to 1”) in several colors. 
  3. Glue the paper squares around the circle in a radial fashion. Alternate each row of color or make several rows of one color before moving on to the next.
  4. You can leave a border around the edge of your piece or glue squares all the way to the edge of the paper.

Alma Thomas B 2473

MORE IDEAS:

  • Laminate for a colorful placemat that lasts.
  • Create an image on large newsprint or craft paper and use it as giftwrap. 

Learn about African-American artist Faith Ringgold and create a story collage inspired by her work at www.sandiegofamily.com/for-the-kids/crafts-for-kids/black-history-collage-project.

Alyssa Navapanich is a nationally recognized art educator who teaches art to elementary school kids in East San Diego County. She is the author of San Diego Family Magazine’s “Art with Alyssa” column.

_____________

Art with Alyssa: Nature Pendants

Art with Alyssa: Nature Pendants

Spring is an excellent time for nature-inspired art projects for kids. This month’s “Art with Alyssa” project provides instructions to make nature pendants, which make wonderful gifts for . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: How to Make a Nature Journal

Art with Alyssa: How to Make a Nature Journal

Creating and maintaining a nature journal is a fun, relaxing and educational activity for children (and adults) that encourages time outdoors and connection with nature. There is no right way to kee . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: Recycled Egg Carton Flowers

Art with Alyssa: Recycled Egg Carton Flowers

Turning trash into treasure is not only fun, it’s great for the planet. You’ll love this recycled art project that transforms a paper egg carton into a beautiful bouquet of flowers—perfect for . . .

Read more

Burlap Bunny Treat Bags

Burlap Bunny Treat Bags

These cute burlap bunnies are fun to create and fill with treats, making them perfect for friends or classmates! Kids can participate in assembling or decorating these treat filled easter decoration . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: Earth Monoprints

Art with Alyssa: Earth Monoprints

Celebrate Earth Day by doing an art project at home and participating in local Earth Day events around San Diego. Discussion Points for Teachers/Parents How to take care of the planet—Reduce, . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: Nature's Paintbrushes

Art with Alyssa: Nature's Paintbrushes

Create beautiful outdoor art using homemade paintbrushes from plants and items found in nature.Tips for Teachers/ParentsTeach children to respect living plants and only use found or discarded flower . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: DIY Easter Treat Baskets

Art with Alyssa: DIY Easter Treat Baskets

Make miniature baskets using simple materials like paper plates, pipe cleaners and markers; then deliver springtime treats to neighbors and friends! Supplies Paper plates, one per basket Marker . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: Nature Weaving

Art with Alyssa: Nature Weaving

Supplies Twigs or sticks, 6–12” long Garden clippers Scissors Twine or yarn Variety of grasses, flowers and plants with long stems. (I used buttercup, euryops, geranium, lavender, rosemar . . .

Read more

Bunny & Baby Chick Treat Bags

Bunny & Baby Chick Treat Bags

  Surprise friends, classmates or teammates with festive treat bags filled with candy or snack crackers. Perfect for Easter or any springtime celebration! Materials 8½ x 11” cardstock i . . .

Read more

Easter Egg Decor

Easter Egg Decor

Decorate real eggs this Easter to look like sweet treats such as cupcakes, lollipops and wrapped candies. SuppliesEggsEgg decorating kit/dye of choiceSmall pieces of colored and clear cellophaneBake . . .

Read more

Make and Send a Hug to Loved Ones

Make and Send a Hug to Loved Ones

Don’t you miss hugging people? Here’s a clever DIY hug craft that lets loved ones know they are missed! Whether it’s Mother's Day, Father’s Day, Teacher Appreciation, a birthday or some othe . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: Recycled Easter “Eggs”

Art with Alyssa: Recycled Easter “Eggs”

Combining Easter fun and environmental awareness in honor of Earth Day is a win-win in our eyes. Here are instructions to make DIY Easter “eggs”— a fun and clever way to wrap and hide treats f . . .

Read more

Raindrop Drip Painting

Raindrop Drip Painting

We don’t know many kids who can resist jumping in rain puddles. And since we don’t get rain puddles too often in San Diego, it’s a particularly unique and special activity! Why not commemorate . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: Marble Painting

Art with Alyssa: Marble Painting

  Marble painting is a great art project that encourages eye-hand coordination and muscle control. It’s fun to experiment with different colors and designs and it’s easy to adapt the project . . .

Read more

Be Family Informed – Sign up for our Newsletters below!

Subscribe