Inspiring creativity and diversity through printmaking: Lessons from "Beautiful Blackbird"

​Engaging students in art isn't just about teaching techniques; it's about challenging perspectives and celebrating diversity. In his renowned children's book, Beautiful Blackbird, author and illustrator Ashley Bryan beautifully demonstrates this message, offering not just a story, but a powerful tool for art educators.

Beautiful Blackbird tells the tale of a very unique bird with black feathers. All of the other birds in the forest were bright colors of red, yellow, green, and blue. Despite being different, Blackbird is hailed as the most beautiful. However, envy among the other birds leads them to seek external validation. They ask Blackbird to paint their feathers black. Blackbird's response emphasizes the importance of inner beauty.

Author and Illustrator, Ashley Bryan

​Ashley Bryan's own journey adds another layer of significance to the narrative. Born in Harlem in 1923, Bryan faced discrimination but pursued his passion for art. His experiences, including serving in the segregated United States Army during World War II, underscore the importance of resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.

Beautiful Blackbird not only celebrates diversity but also challenges color stereotypes. Through Blackbird's character, Bryan delivers a timeless message: true beauty emanates from within. This message, though simple, holds profound relevance, urging students to reflect on their own identities and perceptions.

Printmaking Lesson

As educators, we have the opportunity to share this narrative to inspire creative exploration in the classroom. Printmaking, with its rich history and diverse techniques, offers a perfect avenue for such exploration. Drawing inspiration from Bryan's vibrant illustrations, students can delve into relief printing, a technique known for its bold contrasts and expressive potential.

Starting with accessible materials like scratch-foam boards or linoleum blocks, students can sketch their bird designs directly onto the surface. The process of carving and printing not only builds technical skills but also encourages experimentation and self-expression.

One of the beauties of printmaking lies in its reproducibility. Through small print editions, students can explore variations in color, composition, and background, each print offering a new opportunity for artistic exploration.

Just as Blackbird stands out amidst the colorful forest, students can use bright colors to emphasize their bird figures against vibrant backgrounds. This not only adds visual interest but also reinforces the central theme of celebrating uniqueness and diversity.

Students may also incorporate motifs from Bryan's illustrations, such as plants and/or other birds. Students can create compositions inspired by the original story. Through this process, they not only engage with the narrative on a deeper level but also develop their visual storytelling skills.

Beautiful Blackbird serves as a beacon of inspiration for educators seeking to foster creativity and diversity in the classroom. By embracing printmaking, students can celebrate their individuality, express themselves artistically, and discover the beauty in their own uniqueness. Let us harness the power of art to inspire, empower, and uplift the next generation.

What projects have you taught inspired by children’s books?
How do you approach printmaking with younger students?
What are your favorite tips to make printmaking easier in the art room?