Animals in Art

Animals in Art Tour Description

K-2nd grades

Students identify animals in works of art, textiles, and historic furnishings and analyze how and why artists selected these particular animals. Upon request, tour may include making tile-rubbings of bas relief insect and animal tiles on the Sun Porch of the historic house. 

NC Standard Course of Study Connections

Visual Arts: K-3.CN.1.1, 5-7.CN.1.1, 5.CN.2.2, K-3.RE.1.1, 5-8.RE.1.1, K-3.RE.1.2, 4.RE.1.2, 5-6.RE.1.2, 8.RE.1.2 

ELA: SL.K-2.1-4, similar analysis to RL.K-2.1 and RL.K-1.3

Learning objectives: Students who experience an Animals in Art tour will be able to

  • practice carefully looking at works of art, looking for representations of real and imaginary animals
  • describe and discuss objects and works of art including animals
  • practice visual literacy skills of observation and interpretation and communicating what they see in a group conversation
  • list possible reasons why artists might use animals in art and decoration and what meanings animals may convey

Location: Reynolda House Museum of American Art

Available: until December 12, 2025

Accommodates: 8-48 people

60-90 minutes

$3 + tax per student

Questions? Contact Julia Tanner, julia@reynolda.org

Optional art workshops ($6 plus tax per student for tour + workshop)