Learning
ArtSpark is a series of free learning resources that bring you closer to artworks and artists in the Government Art Collection. Age is no limit – there are activities and ideas for children and adults. Teachers and families will find plenty of ideas and inspiration to support classroom and online learning.
Can you dance and draw at the same time? Discover how Denzil Forrester’s art is all about music – learn about the dub music that has inspired him, build your own cardboard sound system and… write a ghost play!
Discover how the image of a vase can reveal the story behind the HMT Empire Windrush, how simple, every day objects can say something about you, your family, or your culture or community, and use patterns you come across all the time to create an artwork like Hurvin Anderson’s.
Create your own print, try your hand at patchwork poetry and learn about the symbols behind flowers and plants such as myrtle, rosemary, roses and hibiscus, all inspired by the work of Yinka Shonibare.
Find suggestions on how to engage with Lubaina Himid’s artwork in the Collection – from exploring the artist’s themes and techniques, to pointers on curriculum links.
Bubbles, bubbles, bubbles – Rachel Whiteread’s art is often about making things that are usually invisible visible. Can you do the same and use negative space – often a tool artists use – to create some art?
Michaela Yearwood-Dan often depicts topics based on observations of society and self. Did she always know she was going to be an artist?
Explore Madelynn Green’s art – how does she use photo and video, as well as her imagination to create art?
Mohammed Sami talks about personal things in his art, like how, when he came from Sweden, his plug didn’t fit the British socket.
Explore Samuel Fordham’s work with photography, text, video and sound that tells intimate stories highlighting childhood, family welfare and equality.
This sculpture is by Black British artist, Ronald Moody. Find out about this sculpture’s amazing journey around the world.
What is the story behind Gillian Wearing’s 1994 video work Dancing in Peckham? Make some moves of your own, or try making your own film.
The oldest work in the Collection is a portrait of King Henry VIII. But what links Henry VIII to Stormzy?
This is the earliest work by a woman in the Collection. Discover the story of the portrait and its artist.
Our learning content is royalty free, all we ask is that the artists and the Government Art Collection are credited where appropriate.
