Sunflowers

We are still studying the Sunflower State, Kansas, and when I think of sunflowers, I think of Vincent van Gogh.  Camille and the Sunflowers, A story about Vincent van Gogh by Laurence Anholt, is a picture book based on an actual encounter and real people.  The book tells the story of a boy named Camille who became friends with a lonely and unknown painter who is now recognized as a great artist.  The story is very sweet and includes some great life lessons about how to treat people who may be different. 

This book is a fantastic introduction to the works of van Gogh.  The watercolor illustrations are beautiful, and we love the reproductions of vanGogh's most famous paintings.  C was introduced to van Gogh's work in art class this past year, and he really enjoyed reading this book.  R enjoyed the book too.  C came up with our art project after we read this book.  This is the third time C has presented an art lesson, and I love watching how much he enjoys teaching art.

C and R dipped chalk in water and drew on construction paper, making their own sunflowers.

R drew these sunflowers:

If you look closely, you can see that she drew a sun (yellow circle with lines extending all around) and colored the middle brown.  That is truly a "sun"flower.

Here is C's art:

The blue and purple thing in the upper right corner is a butterfly.  C's sunflowers came out great. He really enjoys drawing.

I am linking this post to stArt at A Mommy's Adventures.  Hop on over there to read more blog posts about books and art.