Forget old-fashioned colouring books! Let the world of New Zealand art unleash children’s imaginations. Lateral thinking and creativity truly blossom when combined with robust technical skills – and this book delivers!
As well as highlights from the National Art Collection reproduced in full colour, there’s a feast of new works for kids by leading contemporary artists, specially commissioned for this book. Tried and tested on real children, this book will have adults reaching for their coloured pens too.
I’m liking
My daughter is currently super-keen on activity books and this is the best I have found. The activities are simple in their general approach but allow for loads of creativity. Both children and adults will enjoy completing the activities and also discussing them.
There is a large range of different activities from instructions for drawing a 3D box to drawing your own version of well-known New Zealand paintings. The focus is very much on New Zealand and the activities cover aspects of New Zealand’s culture, heritage and nature without being preachy or lecture-y.
While the books is mostly in back and white, there is a smattering of reproductions of New Zealand art works. They are carefully chosen and give a sense of the range of New Zealand Art help by Te Papa.
The conclusion
I can’t recommend this book more. I love the fact that there are lots of conversation points for adults and children and that the book is a great entrance into New Zealand art. The activities are thoughtful and accessible and there is plenty here for children of all ages. The more I peruse this book, the more I love it! A perfect gift or travel accessory – will keep your children engaged for hours!
