KS1 Art In Action Activities

Unleash Creativity Through Movement and Experimentation

Transform Key Stage 1 children into action artists with four exciting, process-based activities that explore how movement creates art. Inspired by Jackson Pollock and other action painters, this dynamic resource pack encourages experimentation, creative risk-taking, and joyful artistic expression—perfectly aligned to the National Curriculum for Art & Design and Design & Technology.

What's Included:

• Action Art – Discover the techniques of Jackson Pollock and create energetic paintings through movement and gesture
• Rolling Marbles In Paint – Explore unpredictable patterns by rolling paint-covered marbles across paper in trays
• Paint Pendulum – Investigate gravity and motion as a swinging pendulum creates mesmerizing paint trails
• Blowing Paint – Use breath and straws to blow paint across paper, creating organic shapes and patterns

Learning Outcomes:

Children will experiment with different artistic techniques and processes, explore how movement and forces create visual effects, and develop confidence in creative expression. Activities encourage risk-taking, problem-solving, and understanding that art can be made in unconventional ways while meeting KS1 Art & Design objectives with cross-curricular links to Design & Technology and Science (forces and motion).

Why Teachers Love This Resource:

Ready-to-teach activities bring excitement and energy to art lessons with minimal preparation required. Perfect for engaging reluctant artists and encouraging all children to experiment without fear of making mistakes. Ideal for outdoor learning or messy play sessions, with clear instructions and simple materials. Supports creative confidence, fine motor skills, and understanding that the artistic process is as valuable as the final product.