Looking for a simple art activity that creates bold, eye-catching results? This Paul Klee goldfish art project uses oil pastels and paint to create a glowing fish against a dark ocean background. It’s easy to set up, works for a wide range of ages, and introduces a famous artist through hands-on learning.
👉 Looking for more artist projects? Explore our Famous Artist Art Projects for Kids
Paul Klee Goldfish Art Project
Artist: Paul Klee
Grades: K–4
Art Concepts Explored: Color contrast, resist art, texture, composition, mixed media
Paul Klee was known for using bold colors and simple shapes to create imaginative artwork. In his painting The Goldfish, a bright fish glows in a dark underwater scene, making it stand out dramatically.
This project recreates that effect using a simple resist technique, in which the paint sits on top of the waxy pastel rather than fully covering it.
Supplies Needed
- Art paper (thicker paper works best)
- Oil pastels
- Black paint (acrylic or tempera)
- Paintbrush
- Water
- Paper towel
- Toothpick (optional)
How To Make Klee Goldfish Art
- Draw several fish using oil pastels.
👉 Make one large, bright fish (yellow or orange works best). - Add a light pastel blue to the background.
- Mix a little water into the black paint and cover the entire paper.
- Before the paint dries, dab the fish with a paper towel to reveal the color underneath.
- Use a toothpick to scratch lines and add texture as the paint dries.
How to Teach This Art Project (Classroom or Home)
This project works especially well because it combines multiple art skills into a single activity.
Start by showing an example of Klee’s Goldfish and ask:
- What do you notice about the colors?
- Which part stands out the most?
- Why does the fish look like it’s glowing?
Encourage kids to:
- Use bright colors for the main fish
- Keep the background darker
- Experiment with patterns and texture
💡 Tip: Let kids know there is no “right way”—Klee’s work is imaginative, not realistic.
What’s Happening (Art Technique Explained)
This project uses a technique called resist art.
Oil pastels are made with wax, which repels water-based paint. When you paint over the drawing, the pastel resists the paint, allowing the bright colors to show through.
The dark background increases contrast, making the fish appear brighter—almost like it’s glowing underwater.
Paul Klee Facts for Kids
- Paul Klee loved experimenting with color and texture.
- He combined simple shapes with imaginative ideas.
- His artwork often looks playful and dreamlike.
- The Goldfish is one of his most well-known paintings.
Extension Activities
- Try another resist art project using different colors
- Pair with an ocean or animal theme
- Add a sketchbook prompt: Draw a deep-sea creature
- Write a short story about the glowing fish
👉 Looking for more ocean-themed ideas? Explore our Ocean Activities for Kids
Related Art Projects
- Klee-Inspired Castle Art Project (coming soon)
- Hokusai Wave Art Project
- Monet Water Lilies Painting
- Matisse-Inspired Art for Kids
Art Project FAQ
Why isn’t my resist effect working?
Make sure you are pressing firmly with oil pastels. Light coloring won’t resist the paint as well.
Can I use tempera paint instead of acrylic?
Yes! Both work well. Slightly watered-down paint gives the best coverage.
What kind of paper should I use?
Heavier paper (like cardstock or watercolor paper) works best to prevent warping.
Can I use crayons instead of oil pastels?
You can, but oil pastels produce brighter colors and a stronger resist effect.
Final Thoughts
This Paul Klee goldfish art project is simple to set up but creates bold, impressive results. It’s a great way to introduce famous artists while exploring color, texture, and mixed media techniques.
Looking for more famous artist projects?
Explore our Famous Artist Project Bundle, filled with hands-on art activities inspired by well-known artists. Each project is designed to be easy to use with kids and focuses on technique, creativity, and process over perfection.
