Easy Tessellations For Kids

Combine art and easy tessellations with a MC Escher inspired art activity for kids. Create a tessellation with this simple to set up tessellations activity using a few basic supplies. The key to success is in the shape! Explore mixed media art with famous artist, MC Escher and our printable tessellations template below.

Escher Tessellations Art Project

WHO IS MC ESCHER?

Maurits Cornelis Escher was a Dutch graphic artist born in 1898 who made mathematically inspired woodcuts, lithographs, and mezzotints. He was a draftsman, book illustrator, tapestry designer, and muralist, but his main work was as a printmaker. He became known for his detailed realistic prints that achieved bizarre optical and conceptual effects.

ESCHER TESSELLATIONS

Tessellations are connected patterns made of repeating shapes that cover a surface completely without overlapping or leaving any holes. For example, a checkerboard is a tessellation comprised of alternating colored squares. The squares meet with no overlapping and can be extended on a surface forever.

Tessellations have been used for thousands of years in architectural designs and structures. MC Escher is known as a master of tessellation artwork. Escher portrayed realistic objects like fish, birds, and other animals, in his drawings and prints. Have a turn at creating your own Escher art with our printable tessellations template below! Let’s get started!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Zentangle Tessellations

WHY STUDY FAMOUS ARTISTS?

Studying the artwork of the masters not only influences your artistic style but even improves your skills and decisions when creating your own original work.

It is great for kids to be exposed to different styles of art, experiment with different mediums, and techniques through our famous artist art projects.

Kids may even find an artist or artists whose work they really like and will inspire them to do more of their own art work.

Why is learning about art from the past important?

• Kids who are exposed to art have an appreciation for beauty!
• Kids who study art history feel a connection to the past!
• Art discussions develop critical thinking skills!
• Kids who study art learn about diversity at a young age!
• Art history can inspire curiosity!

Click here to get your free Escher Tessellations template!

ESCHER TESSELLATIONS ART ACTIVITY

SUPPLIES:

• Tessellation printable
• Scissors
• Colored paper
• Glue stick

HOW TO MAKE TESSELLATIONS

STEP 1. Print the tessellation template.

STEP 2. Cut out the pre-drawn triangles in the template or design your own.

STEP 3. Use the template shapes to cut the colored paper.

STEP 4. Line up the shapes to make a colorful tessellation (no gaps) and glue them to a piece of colored paper.