Stamping with Siblings

Creative habits are often built during time spent with family.  Offering opportunities for such focused play can benefit individual members, as well as the whole unit.  This artist and her mother are discussing various materials that are available for use in the studio.  Though mom may give her two cents and express her personal preference, the artist makes choices for herself as she engages in genuine self-discovery.

Experimenting with different colored paints, the artist also tries out various shapes and sizes of stamps.  She samples large corks, small foam toys, skinny rubber pencil grippers, wide bottle tops, patterned thread spools and textured plastic parts.  Repeatedly using those that she favors allows her to produce multiple prints, resulting in a more pleasing and inspirational outcome.  The process has also allowed the artist to perfect skills, such as learning how much paint to use and how hard to press.

After looking on at her brother's progress, she decides to try something new.  Borrowing stamps that he has finished using, she adds her own twist and continues creating according to her personal style.  Each child works separately, but both take cues from each other to share items or focus on a specific part of their painting.

The unique way that sister paints is very different from the autonomous technique that brother is using. Neither are forced to work a certain way, and can discover their true potential while enjoying the process.  Admiring the resulting artwork together also brings more attention to each sibling's personality and developmental abilities.

Bringing siblings to the art studio together may feel a bit intimidating for a parent.  Taking this step, however, can be a great way for family members to channel energies and form a bond through a common interest.  Specifically, using stamps is a wonderful way for anyone to learn about making art.  He or she can find things in the house to use, and leave a personal mark with a special symbol.  As seen here, the siblings use similar materials but create individual pieces.  They work side by side, but focus on their own actions.  As a result, family time can be relaxing, fun, and allow for personal growth.