Living with Art (and Kids!)
Many of my clients have young kids and sometimes feel apprehensive about incorporating valuable works of art into their homes, fearing they will get ruined or damaged. When it comes to kids and art, I believe education is critical. I recommend taking them to museums, galleries, and artist’s studios and teaching them, in an encouraging and fun manner, the best ways to engage with art (which usually involves not touching, something that admittedly takes practice).
I worked with elementary school students at the Guggenheim Museum for many years, and of course have 3 young children of my own, whom I frequently take to museums and galleries. Here are some of my top tips for experiencing art with kids:
If possible, do a bit of research on the show in advance so you can know some basic information about artist and his or her work.
Time your visit in optimal hours for your kid’s schedules (this includes meals and naps). Ideally, bring them well-rested and fed.
Many museums offer family-focused tours or workshops - these are great because they are specifically designed with kids in mind.
Prior to entering the museum/gallery, have a conversation about the visit and expectations or “art manners”. Make it an interactive discussion where you talk about what you might find inside and ask them what might be the best ways to behave once you are inside.
Remind them to always keep at least an arms length of distance between themselves and the art.
In addition to discussing the rules, I also like to have a “theme” or big idea to refer back to when looking at the exhibition. This works well to keep the family connected to one central theme and keeps the show accessible to everyone.
Bring paper and pencil so they can sketch the artworks they like. Despite the standoffish vibe in some museums and galleries, paper and pencil is almost always acceptable. In fact, many venues have “family packs” to offer as part of your visit which include fun prompts, art materials, and games for young visitors. (If you don’t see them displayed, ask at the front desk).
Depending on the age of your kids, your visit may be short, and that’s ok. Young kids cannot be expected to spend hours upon hours in a museum or gallery. A short and fun visit, where they spend time with 2 or 3 artworks, might be enough for them.
Make it interactive - ask them questions and have a conversation. Studies have shown that children retain much more information through discussions with questions/answers, rather than lectures.
Ask them what was their favorite part of the visit and discuss what they might want to see next time.
I recently read a profile on the late financier and noted art collector Donald Marron, whose kids recalled what it was like to bounce tennis balls and ride scooters in daringly close proximity to masterpieces by Picasso and Matisse. His son, William, mentioned that, “there was an innate respect and love and appreciation of the art, but at the same time, art wasn’t placed in a situation where we revered it.” I believe you can educate kids so that art can be placed in the home and retain its aesthetic, social, and monetary value.
Take your kids to see art and don’t be scared to introduce artwork into your home!