Kinetic artists create mobiles, artwork that moves or artwork that can be moved, which intrigues and fascinates viewers. Movable art is fun for kids to look at and is also enjoyable to make. Creating kinesthetic art encourages kids to look at art differently and use problem-solving skills. Kinesthetic artwork can be created for everyday use or to be viewed in a special place.
Movable Musical Sculpture
Create movable musical sculptures with recycled materials for kids to enjoy. Thread lengths of string with old metal washers, beads and bottle caps with holes nailed through them. Punch holes around the outer rim of paper plates and tie lengths of string through holes. Decorate the outside of the paper plates with paint and glitter. The paper-plate kinetic sculpture can be played like a tambourine or hung from the ceiling with a length of string and enjoyed while it moves and makes noise in the wind.
Mobiles
Mobiles are another form of kinesthetic art with parts that move independently and together. Use lengths of craft wire to create a balanced kinetic mobile. The kinetic mobile should hang fairly balanced when hung from a central point. Once you are satisfied with the design, cut organic shapes from construction paper and attach to the wire mobile with lengths of fishing line. Hang the mobile and enjoy its movements.
Kinesthetic Painting
Use music and movement as inspiration for kinesthetic artwork. Place a large sheet of bulletin board paper on a wall and position small containers holding red, yellow and blue paint with small brushes in close proximity. Play different types of music and move accordingly while painting in time with the tempo. Change the music and see how it affects the body's movements while painting.
Windsock Music Manipulative
Cut lengths of ribbon and fabric to use for a movable, free-flowing windsock that can double as an awesome music and movement manipulative. Tie lengths of ribbon and fabric around 6- to 9-inch metal craft rings. Attach metal washers or bells at the other end of ribbons or lengths of fabric. The windsock can be hung with an attached length of string outside or can be used while dancing and moving to music.
