Sometimes I would compare the interiors of two books, showing the children how one used paper that was stiff and rough while the other had slick, thin pages. It is always stimulating to ask children to speculate on the reasons for a designer's choices. Choosing typefaces for the print in books and on different things in the room involves other artistic decisions, such as whether to make the letters bold, italic, with or without serifs. Not only do these discussions point out the wealth of job or career opportunities in the field of art, but they give children a clear idea of the value of artists and the breadth of their impact in our society. Part of teaching our children to value art and artists is to make sure they understand that artists make an economic and cultural contribution.
Teachers can ask children to do further research at home.
There are artist-designed patterns on dishes and bedsheets, clothing and furniture. Any kitchen pantry will contain packages designed and illustrated by artists. From placemat designs to bath toys, any home is a showcase of work created by artists from many areas. Older children are particularly interested in the work of artists outside the home and school. Posters on the sides of trucks and buses were created by artists, and children can often find innovative graphic displays in stores.