The 'Color American Indian Art' book in the "World Culture Art Coloring Series," extends far beyond a regular coloring book. There are thirty-eight pages filled with images that are both culturally rich and stunning, complete with a brief historical footnote for each image. Pages also include a synopsis of the art form. Two pages were added to coloring and creating designs and patterns from the elements found in the art form. Images are multifunctional and besides coloring, can be used to create cutouts, masks, and various other crafts. Overall, the images are carefully chosen from wall paintings, sculptures, bas-reliefs, etc. to inspire creativity in the minds of all the participants.
A Review on the Educational Value of the World Culture Art Coloring Series by:
Dr. Mark Woolmer,
Durham University, Department of Classics and Ancient History, Durham, UK, February 2017
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Research has shown that drawing and coloring are vitally important creative outlets for young children as they enable them to become immersed in their colorful imaginary worlds which can be translated onto paper. Significantly, these activities are not only fun but also support a child's educational and creative development, a fact which Mrinal Mitra, author, and illustrator of the popular World Culture Coloring Series, is cognizant of. His books, which, amongst others, include
Color Egyptian Art
,
Color Phoenician Art
Color African Art
, and
Color Cambodian Art
, not only provide depictions of a diverse range of culturally significant artworks (all of which can easily be colored or decorated in a multitude of ways), they also include key pieces of historical or contextual information for each item. The wide selection of artworks in each book is an inspiration for creativity and an introduction to the unique themes, concepts, and ideas prevalent in that particular artistic tradition. The series' skillful blending of creative fun and instructive learning makes these books an invaluable pedagogical resource that can easily be used by both teachers and parents alike. Having integrated one of these coloring books into a local museum's educational program, I can affirm both the popularity of this series amongst children and its pedagogical potential. I look forward to seeing what other cultures will be added to the series in the future.
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