This is an easy fall project inspired by the artist, Yayoi Kusama, and it is PACKED with elements and principles for young artists to learn and practice.

The project begins with a tracer to create a pumpkin contour, then students build color blending skills using oil pastels. The project is finished with sponge dots and cotton swabs dipped in black tempera paint to mimic Kusama’s trademark polka dot patterns.

I have made the physical process of this lesson accessible to a variety of levels, and the artistic elements customizable for you to suit the needs of your students and curriculum goals.