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!

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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!

Helpful Art Resources To Get You Started

Here are a few resources to help you introduce art more effectively to your kiddos or students and feel confident when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.

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.

Helpful Art Resources To Get You Started

Here are a few resources to help you introduce art more effectively to your kiddos or students and feel confident when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.

More Fun Art Activities for Kids

We have many printable art projects to try. Learn about a different famous artist every day!

Printable Famous Artists Project Pack

Want to learn even more about famous artists? This famous artist pack is a growing resource filled with fantastic projects to explore and create!

Inside The Art Pack: Find 22+ famous artists to explore.

Also, look for tips for success, getting started information, and more! Note: Many options for female and POC artists are also included.

Each artist includes: 

  • Artist Project Sheets, each with three ideas to try.
  • Additional Artist Project Printable Activities to go along with each artist and project.
  • Simple Artist Biography Sheets that are kid-friendly. Get to know each artist!
  • Animated Artist Videos that cover a simple project idea to try for each artist!
  • My Favorite Artist Mini Pack to explore a favorite artist further if desired.
  • Getty Challenge shows you how to try this cool art challenge at home or in the classroom!
  • Supply List to help you fill your art cart for anytime projects!
  • Helpful Tips to make each project successful for Everyone!
  • Bonus Projects Pack Full of Easy Ideas, including a DIY Art Camp!