School Tours: Art Tales: Matthew's Dream by Leo Lionni
Ages 4–6
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Art Tales provides an engaging three-step process for exploring works of art. Children's literature is used to introduce themes in art; students are then encouraged to apply these themes when observing and discussing the works of art in the galleries. An art activity at the end of each program helps students make hands-on connections between the themes discussed and the works observed.
Looking and Learning Skills
Art Tales: Matthew's Dream teaches students that museums are places in which to see, discuss, and make art, and that art is composed of colors and shapes. On this tour, students:
- Become familiar with museum settings
- Look for clues in a work of art and compare two works of art
- Use their imaginations to connect works of art they see to works of art they make
Book Summary
Matthew's Dream is the story of a young mouse that visits a museum with his class. In the museum, Matthew sees all kinds of amazing paintings, including abstract works filled with many colors, lines, and shapes. Matthew is so inspired by the abstract paintings that he dreams he is walking inside one of them. Eventually, he becomes a painter whose abstract works hang in the museum.
Group Size: Up to 30 students
Length: 45–60 minutes
Meeting Location: East Building, Entrance (inside)
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General information
What Gallery resources are available on this theme?
What is object-based teaching and learning?