Visual Art Projects for Multi Intelligences

Visual art is a creative form of expression for all types of learners.

The idea of multiple intelligences first appeared when Howard Gardner identified seven distinct intelligences. Gardner is an educator and psychologist who advocated that we each have our own intelligence that allows us to be successful. Most educators are aware of Gardner's Multiple Intelligences and incorporate different ways of learning into everyday lessons. Visual Art is actually one of the easier subjects that you can use to incorporate different learning styles into lessons.

Visual-Spatial

For those with a Visual-Spatial intelligence, visual art comes easily. You can pretty much let this type of learner pick his own project. They often already have something in mind and can complete the project without much help. However, if you want to offer some suggestions, let them try their hand at sculpture, ceramics or drawing. Art that requires a high level of visual understanding is the best choice for Visual-Spatial students.

Bodily-Kinesthetic

Students who have a Bodily-Kinesthetic intelligence may shy away from visual art. Introduce art slowly to them by using something they feel they already do well. Put students who share this intelligence into pairs. One student strikes a pose, while the other student traces the shadow on a large piece of paper behind the student posing. You will need a strong projector light so students get the best shadow possible. Encourage them to strike poses they feel comfortable with. For instance, ballet and basketball poses can show a great deal of energy and meaning.

Musical

Students who have a Musical intelligence have the ability to create beautiful works of art. They just need a little help from music. Set up a music station, complete with headphones, for the student. Ask him to create an abstract painting while listening to music. Tell him to match the color and paint strokes according to how the music makes him feel. Remind him to avoid putting too much thought into the painting. All he has to do is listen, feel and paint.

Interpersonal/Intrapersonal

Having an Interpersonal intelligence means a student learns best through contact with others. Group collaboration and conversation are easy for these students. Group together students who have this intelligence. They can work together to create something unique. Some possible choices include a mural or a life-size person using recyclable materials. Students with an Intrapersonal intelligence have a complete understanding of their own interests, goals, etc. Art projects that reflect personal values and feelings are good choices for students with an Intrapersonal intelligence. Self-portraits may be a choice you want to suggest to students with this type of intelligence.

Linguistic

Students with Linguistic intelligence use words effectively. They have high auditory skills and can picture words in their heads easily. Story illustration is always an option with this type of student. This student can catch onto art concepts when given direct instruction. Teacher demonstrations are all it takes to get this learner to jump right into a new concept.

Logical-Mathematical

Students with Logical-Mathematical intelligence excel in reasoning and calculating. These students would benefit from art projects that involve patterns, graphs and interwoven puzzle-like patterns. Wooden puzzles and graphic art designs would appeal to them. Computer graphics would open up a whole new doorway as well.

References

• TecWeb: Gardner's Multiple Intelligences
• Indiana Edu.: Howard Gardner