20 Discussion Topics and Ongoing Assignments for Art Inspiration

The following discussion topics can be used to get to know students to determine the course of the rest of your time together. Their interests can shape what kinds of projects you do with them, and their work habits can influence how you structure lessons (for example, if the students don’t like working with partners, maybe you won’t do that big mural project with them). The discussion topics can also be used as inspiration in the ongoing assignments when students finish their projects early. Give them a question and ask them to write about it, draw it in their sketchbook, or make it out of clay.

 

Discussion Topics:

  • Theme of interest students choose
  • What do you like to draw?
  • What do you know most about?
  • What kinds of art do you like to make?
  • What did you do over the weekend? During holidays?
  • What is your favorite movie?
  • What is your favorite color?
  • What shows do you like to watch?
  • What is your favorite food?
  • What do you like to do over the summer?
  • What are the best trips you’ve ever been on?
  • What do you do after school?
  • What did you make in class? Why?
  • How would you title your work?
  • If you were working with a partner on a piece of art, what would you make and what would you call it?
  • If you were the curator of an art exhibit and you had to come up with a title for the class’ art made today, what would you call it?
  • What are your favorite sports?
  • What do you like most about art?
  • Who are your favorite artists?
  • What kind of music do you like to listen to? What does it make you think of?

 

Ongoing Assignments:

  • Daily sketchbook
  • Participation in Art Show
    • Artist statements
    • Assembling art for Art Show
    • Setting up and taking down art show
    • Talking to visitors during exhibit about your art
  • Geo paper sculpture mobile
  • Paper mural projects
  • Model magic creatures
  • Animal totems
  • Themed hall displays
  • Make a drawing with your neighbor